Refer to this Spanish gazpacho chilled soup recipe
Gazpacho is a traditional Spanish soup known for its refreshing and cool taste, perfect for hot summer days. Originating from the southern region of Andalusia, this dish has been a staple in Spanish cuisine for centuries. It's a vegetarian and eggless delight that combines ripe tomatoes, crisp vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Ready to dive into the simplicity of making gazpacho? Let's get cooking.
Gather the following ingredients
To make this delightful soup, you will need six ripe tomatoes, one cucumber (peeled), one green bell pepper, one red onion, two cloves of garlic (minced), three tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, two tablespoons of red wine vinegar, salt and pepper to taste, and one cup of cold water. For garnish, arrange for croutons or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
Preparing the vegetables
Start by thoroughly washing all your vegetables under cold running water. Next, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion into rough chunks. Don't worry about the precision of your chopping since everything will be blended later on. This crucial step is essential for ensuring that all the flavors meld together perfectly in your gazpacho, creating a harmonious blend.
Blending ingredients together
Take your chopped vegetables and place them into a large blender. Add the minced garlic cloves to the mix. Pour in the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar next. These liquids will help in blending everything smoothly while adding depth to the flavor profile of your gazpacho. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Seasoning your soup
Once your gazpacho is blended to a smooth consistency, transfer it into a large mixing bowl. Now, season with salt and pepper, keeping in mind your personal taste preferences. It's important to remember that chilling can slightly dull the flavors, so it's advisable to season generously but also carefully. Stir the mixture well to ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the soup.
Chilling before serving
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or place it into an airtight container, then refrigerate for at least two hours; overnight is ideal. This chilling melds the flavors together and ensures the gazpacho reaches its refreshing cold temperature. Serve the chilled soup garnished with croutons or freshly chopped herbs, adding texture and a burst of freshness, perfect for enjoying on a warm day.
