Save Cool off this season with a bowl of Slim Summer Gazpacho, a vibrant and low-calorie chilled soup that celebrates the best of summer’s harvest. Combining the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the crispness of cucumbers and bell peppers, this Spanish-inspired dish is the ultimate refreshing meal for hot days when you want something light yet satisfying.
Save The beauty of gazpacho lies in its simplicity and the integrity of its raw ingredients. By blending fresh vegetables with a touch of extra-virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar, you create a complex flavor profile that is both zesty and soothing. It is a testament to how few ingredients can yield such a sophisticated and cooling result.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 4 large ripe tomatoes (cored and roughly chopped), 1 large cucumber (peeled and chopped), 1 red bell pepper (seeded and chopped), 1 small red onion (chopped), 1 clove garlic (minced).
- Liquids & Seasonings: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon sea salt, ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1 ½ cups cold water.
- Garnishes (optional): Diced cucumber, diced tomato, chopped fresh basil or parsley, a drizzle of olive oil.
Instructions
- Step 1: Blend Vegetables
- In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
- Step 2: Add Seasoning
- Add olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper, and water. Blend again until well mixed and silky.
- Step 3: Adjust Flavor
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 4: Chill
- Pour the gazpacho into a large bowl or pitcher. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, until very cold.
- Step 5: Serve
- Stir before serving. Ladle into bowls and garnish with diced vegetables, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, use the ripest tomatoes you can find, as they provide the base flavor. If your blender is not high-powered, work in batches to ensure the soup reaches a perfectly silky consistency before chilling.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of Tabasco for an extra kick of zing and heat. If you prefer a bit of crunch, reserve a small portion of the chopped vegetables and stir them in at the end instead of blending them.
Serviervorschläge
This gazpacho is delicious served alongside crusty artisan bread for dipping. For a more substantial meal, serve it as a starter or side to grilled fish or shrimp.
Save Whether served as a light lunch or an elegant appetizer for a summer dinner party, this Slim Summer Gazpacho is sure to be a seasonal favorite. Enjoy the crisp, clean flavors of the garden in every chilled spoonful.
Recipe Questions
- → What vegetables are used in this chilled summer soup?
The soup features ripe tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and garlic, creating a vibrant mix.
- → How is the texture of the gazpacho made silky smooth?
Blending the vegetables thoroughly along with olive oil and vinegar creates a smooth and silky texture. Straining through a fine sieve is optional for extra smoothness.
- → Can the flavors be adjusted after blending?
Yes, seasoning with sea salt, black pepper, and vinegar can be adjusted to taste after blending for a balanced flavor.
- → What is the ideal chilling time before serving?
Allow the soup to chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours to let the flavors meld and serve refreshingly cold.
- → What toppings enhance the served gazpacho?
Diced cucumber, tomato, fresh basil or parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil add fresh texture and vibrant flavor.
- → Are there any suggested additions to spice up the flavor?
Adding smoked paprika or a splash of Tabasco can provide an extra zing and depth to the flavor profile.