Gazpacho is the cold soup I crave on hot summer days when I want something light, refreshing, and packed with bright vegetable flavor. Fresh tomatoes, cucumber, peppers, garlic, and tangy vinegar blend into a silky, smooth texture that's satisfying without feeling heavy. I make it for summer parties, BBQs, picnics, and potlucks because it's make-ahead friendly, works as an impressive appetizer or light lunch, and the flavors actually get better overnight as everything melds together. Store it in the fridge for 3 to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar, 2 pound ripe red tomatoes, 1 clove garlic, 1 slice white bread, ½ cup green pepper, ½ cup cucumber, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, Salt and pepper
Strain through a fine sieve to remove skins and seeds. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Serve in cold glasses and top with the diced vegetables.
Diced onion, Tomato, Green pepper, Cucumber
Video
Notes
Use the ripest tomatoes: Peak-season summer tomatoes make the biggest difference in flavor since they're naturally sweet and juicy, which balances the vinegar's acidity.
Adjust the bread: If your gazpacho is too thin, thin it with a few tablespoons of cold water; if it's too thick, add another half slice and blend once more.
Strain patiently: Take your time pressing the mixture through the sieve to remove as much liquid as possible while leaving behind all the skins and fibrous bits.
Chill the serving glasses: Pop your soup bowls or glasses in the freezer for 15 minutes before serving so the gazpacho stays ice cold from first sip to last.
Customize the garnish: You can also top the soup with croutons, hard-boiled egg, or a dollop of sour cream, depending on what you have on hand.
Batch and portion: Freeze gazpacho in ice cube trays first, then transfer the cubes to freezer bags so you can thaw just what you need without compromising the whole batch.