Cold Gazpacho
Cold gazpacho is a refreshing and vibrant Spanish soup perfect for hot days. Made with ripe tomatoes, cucumber, pepper, and onion, blended with vinegar and olive oil, it offers a tangy, savory flavor profile. Ideal for light lunches or starters, it suits those seeking a healthy, chilled appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Skin tomatoes by plunging them into boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Then plunge them into cold water and peel off skins.
- Place peeled tomatoes in a blender.
- Remove seeds from the green pepper, chop, and add to the tomatoes.
- Peel and chop the cucumber and onion.
- Add the cucumber, onion, garlic, and egg to the blender.
- Measure and add the remaining ingredients: wine vinegar or lemon juice, olive oil, and tomato juice.
- Cover and blend thoroughly until smooth.
- Add cold water to thin the soup to desired consistency.
- Pour the gazpacho into a bowl.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother gazpacho, blend the ingredients longer and adjust the consistency with cold water as needed. If tomatoes are out of season, consider using canned tomatoes or a mix of fresh and canned for flavor. For added depth, a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the taste. Feel free to substitute the cucumber with zucchini for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve gazpacho chilled, garnished with diced cucumber, peppers, and a drizzle of olive oil. It pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad, such as Pasta Hut Salad, for a light meal. For an extra touch, serve it in small cups as an appetizer at gatherings or summer picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gazpacho in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and improve over time. If you’d like to reheat it, do so gently on the stovetop, but keep in mind that gazpacho is traditionally served cold. You can also enjoy it at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cold Gazpacho contains roughly 838 calories, with 11g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (76% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1030mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make gazpacho ahead of time?
Yes, gazpacho can be made up to a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to develop. Stir well before serving, and adjust the consistency with cold water if needed.
What can I use instead of tomatoes?
If you're looking for an alternative, consider using roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile. You could also try blending other vegetables like beets or carrots for a colorful and tasty variation.
Is gazpacho vegan-friendly?
Yes, gazpacho is typically vegan, especially if you omit the egg. The base ingredients are all plant-based, making it a great option for those following a vegan diet. You can also use aquafaba as an egg substitute for added creaminess.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).