Easy2Make Gazpacho Soup, a Healthy Mediterranean Favorite!

Gazpacho soup with garnish is a revitalizing, low-calorie dish that perfectly embodies the essence of summer. This chilled tomato-based soup, originating from the Andalusian region of Spain, is a celebration of fresh vegetables and vibrant flavors, making it an ideal choice for warm weather. The combination of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, bell peppers, and fragrant herbs creates a medley that not only satisfies the palate but also provides essential nutrients, making it a healthy option on warm summer days!

Gazpacho served with a Mediterranean Style Sandwich

My cherished memories of gazpacho date back to my time as a young university student in Barcelona during the 1970s. It was among the first Spanish recipes I mastered, requiring minimal cooking skills while allowing for creative flavor expression. The lively La Boqueria market, which I loved to visit, was always brimming with fresh produce. There, I learned to pick the ripest tomatoes and the crunchiest cucumbers, both crucial for making the perfect bowl of gazpacho. The vibrant colors of the ingredients inspired me, and blending them into a smooth, refreshing soup became a beloved ritual.

Since those formative years, my love for gazpacho has transcended borders. No matter where life has taken me— whether it be the bustling streets of New York or some serene beach in Greece, I've always found a way to prepare this delightful dish. Each locale has introduced me to new variations on the classic recipe. In some places, I’ve discovered the addition of fruits like watermelon or peaches, which add a unique sweetness to the dish, while in others, a splash of vinegar or a drizzle of olive oil enhances the depth of flavor.

The garnish is an essential component of gazpacho, transforming it from a simple soup into a visually appealing and texturally interesting dish. Common garnishes include finely diced vegetables such as cucumber, red onion, and bell peppers, which not only add color but also a satisfying crunch. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can elevate the flavor profile, while croutons or a dollop of creamy avocado can offer a delightful contrast to the soup’s smoothness.

Each time I prepare gazpacho, I enjoy experimenting with different garnishes, making each bowl a unique creation that reflects both my culinary journey and the ingredients available to me at that moment.

 Here is one of my classic recipes that I hope you will enjoy!

Ingredients

1 kg (2.2 lb) ripe juicy Greek tomatoes or ripe plum tomatoes cut into pieces

1 large green bell pepper – cored, seeded and cut into pieces

1 large red bell pepper – cored, seeded and cut into pieces

2 garlic cloves (optional)

2 cups tomato juice

2-3 tbsp tomato paste – or to taste (if needed)

Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish: Small bread croutons, finely diced cucumber, red onion and red and green bell peppers

Preparation method

Place all ingredients in a food processor with a sharp blade or large blender. Blend until pureed. If a bit too thick for your liking, add a little more tomato juice. Season the soup with salt and pepper and place it in a large bowl. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Serve cold with garnish on the side or, if you prefer, garnish just before serving.

Normally I can’t be bothered to peel the tomatoes, but you may certainly do so! Also, for a smoother and finer consistency you may want to pass the pureed soup through a sieve, but I never do as I like my soup with a lot of character!

For something a little more substantial and for easy summer entertainment or a picnic with friends, serve the cold Gazpacho soup with a hearty Mediterranean style sandwich as seen in first photo of this blog post!

Mediterranean Style Sandwich

Make a sandwich using Eliopsomo (olive bread) or crusty Rye Village style bread, romaine lettuce or other salad greens of choice, sliced red onion, roasted red sweet peppers, sliced feta cheese, extra virgin olive oil and dried oregano or a fresh herb of choice and enjoy!