Gazpacho(A Good Cold Vegetable Soup)
A refreshing cold vegetable soup bursting with fresh tomato, cucumber, and bell pepper flavors. Perfect for hot days and healthy appetites, suitable for summer lunches or light dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel tomatoes and coarsely chop.
- Peel, slice, and finely chop onion.
- Seed and coarsely chop bell pepper.
- Peel and coarsely chop cucumber.
- Combine vegetables in a 2-quart pitcher or bowl. Add finely minced garlic if using fresh clove.
- Combine tomato juice, vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if used) in a small bowl.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the vegetables.
- Chill several hours.
- Serve in 1-cup portions.
Tips & Substitutions
For the freshest taste, use ripe, in-season tomatoes. You can substitute red bell pepper for the green pepper for a sweeter flavor. If short on time, you can skip peeling the tomatoes, although it improves texture. Consider adding a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness or using vegetable broth instead of tomato juice for a lighter option. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve gazpacho in chilled bowls for an extra refreshing experience. Garnish with diced cucumber, bell pepper, or croutons for added texture. This dish pairs beautifully with a Cold Vegetable Platter Salad for a light meal or as a starter. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside crusty bread or a Mediterranean-inspired sandwich.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gazpacho in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits. For best results, serve cold, as reheating may alter the refreshing quality of the dish. If you prefer, you can blend it again to restore texture before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gazpacho(A Good Cold Vegetable Soup) contains roughly 468 calories, with 1g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% 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 a day in advance. Allowing it to chill overnight helps the flavors develop more fully. Just remember to stir it well before serving, as the ingredients may settle and separate.
Is gazpacho gluten-free?
Yes, this gazpacho recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Always check your ingredients to ensure no gluten-containing products are added.
Can I add other vegetables to my gazpacho?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with vegetables like zucchini, radishes, or even beets. Just be mindful of the balance of flavors and textures, and remember to keep the base ingredients for the traditional taste.
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).