Name: Easy Gazpacho Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-486888H5M47S
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 4 cups tomato juice; 2 cups chopped tomatoes; 1 small onion, minced; 1 medium green bell pepper, minced; 1 cucumber, chopped; 2 green onions, chopped; ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons of vinegar (alternative to red wine vinegar); 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried tarragon; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon white sugar; Salt and pepper to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Gazpacho is one of the easiest and most refreshing soups you can make, especially when the temperatures rise. It’s incredibly versatile, bursting with ripe, juicy vegetables, and packed with vitamins. This simple recipe takes just 20 minutes to prepare, but the flavors really come together when it chills for a couple of hours. It’s great for meal prep or making ahead for picnics and gatherings. With its bright, tangy flavor and silky texture, it’s the perfect starter or light meal for a summer day. Plus, the garnishing options like croutons and fresh herbs make it even more delicious!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cups tomato juice
2 cups chopped tomatoes
1 small onion, minced
1 medium green bell pepper, minced
1 cucumber, chopped
2 green onions, chopped
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons of vinegar (alternative to red wine vinegar)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried tarragon
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon white sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and prepare them by chopping the tomatoes, cucumber, green onions, and bell pepper. Mince the garlic and onion.
Blend the soup: In a blender or food processor, combine the tomato juice, tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, cucumber, green onions, parsley, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, tarragon, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper.
Blend to combine: Pulse the ingredients until they are well combined but still slightly chunky. You want some texture in your gazpacho, so don’t blend it into a smooth liquid.
Chill: Pour the gazpacho into a serving bowl and cover. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled.
Serve: Once chilled, serve your gazpacho with a drizzle of olive oil, croutons, and fresh herbs for garnish.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Additional Time: 2 hours (chill time)
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Spicy kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to give your gazpacho a little heat.
Add fruit: For a fun twist, you can add some diced watermelon or cantaloupe for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
Herb variations: You can experiment with different fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or even mint for a different flavor profile.
Smooth option: If you prefer a smoother soup, blend it for a longer time until it reaches a velvety texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Gazpacho can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover it tightly to preserve the freshness.
Reheating: Gazpacho is meant to be served cold, so it doesn’t require reheating. Simply enjoy it directly from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes, canned tomatoes can be used in place of fresh tomatoes. Just make sure to use a high-quality brand with no added salt or preservatives for the best flavor.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, gazpacho is ideal for making ahead. It actually tastes better after it’s had time to chill and let the flavors meld together.

Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?

Yes, a blender works just as well for making gazpacho. Just be careful not to over-blend it if you prefer a chunkier texture.

Is gazpacho gluten-free?

Yes, gazpacho is naturally gluten-free. However, if you choose to add croutons or other garnishes, make sure they are gluten-free if needed.

Can I add protein to this soup?

If you want to make it more filling, you could add some grilled chicken or shrimp on top. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a handful of chickpeas would also be great protein options.

Can I make it spicier?

Yes, you can easily add spice by including hot peppers like jalapeños, chili flakes, or even a dash of cayenne pepper.

What can I serve with gazpacho?

Gazpacho pairs well with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a light salad for a refreshing meal. You can also serve it as an appetizer with a sprinkle of feta cheese or olives.

Can I freeze gazpacho?

While it’s not recommended to freeze gazpacho, you can keep it in the fridge for a few days. The texture may change slightly after freezing due to the water content, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or radishes for extra crunch and flavor.

How can I make gazpacho less tangy?

If you find the soup too tangy, reduce the amount of lemon juice or vinegar. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity.

Conclusion

Gazpacho is a refreshing, healthy, and flavorful soup that’s perfect for hot summer days. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce in a light and satisfying way. With minimal prep time and plenty of opportunities to customize, this easy gazpacho recipe is sure to become a staple in your summer meal rotation. Cool off with a bowl of this vibrant, chilled soup and enjoy the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and refreshing flavors!