Bright, refreshing, and full of garden flavor, Gazpacho is the ultimate chilled soup for beating the heat. It’s the kind of dish that feels like pure sunshine in a bowl — cool, colorful, and impossibly fresh.
Made with ripe tomatoes, crisp vegetables, and a drizzle of good olive oil, this classic Spanish dish is a celebration of summer’s best produce. If you enjoy simple dishes that showcase great ingredients, you might also love our Fresh Pasta with Tomato Sauce — another easy and vibrant way to savor ripe tomatoes.
Perfect as a light lunch, a colorful starter, or a cooling snack, gazpacho brings vibrant flavor and effortless style to any table. And for a crisp side that keeps the freshness theme going, don’t miss our Strawberry Salad.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling)
Servings: 4–6 servings
Difficulty: Very Easy
Ingredients
- 6 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 small cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (30ml)
- ⅓ cup olive oil (80ml)
- 1 cup cold water (240ml)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Extra chopped vegetables and croutons, for garnish
Instructions
- In a blender, combine tomatoes, cucumber, peppers, onion, and garlic.
Blend until smooth. - Add vinegar, olive oil, and water.
Blend again until well combined. - Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Chill the gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
- Serve cold, garnished with extra chopped vegetables and croutons if desired.
Notes
Use the ripest tomatoes you can find for the sweetest flavor. Adjust the thickness with more or less water, depending on your preference. For an even silkier gazpacho, strain through a fine mesh sieve after blending.
Variations & Add-ons
Add a slice of stale bread to the blender for a thicker, more traditional texture. Spice it up with a dash of Tabasco or cayenne pepper. Top with diced avocado or a drizzle of basil oil for a gourmet touch.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Background Story
Gazpacho originated centuries ago in Andalusia, Spain — a region known for its sun-drenched fields and abundant produce.
Originally a humble peasant dish made from stale bread, olive oil, garlic, and vinegar, gazpacho evolved into the vibrant, tomato-rich version we know today once New World ingredients like tomatoes and peppers arrived in Europe.
It remains a quintessential symbol of Spanish summer: cool, refreshing, and showcasing the pure flavors of the Mediterranean countryside.
More than just a soup, gazpacho is a way of life — a celebration of simplicity, health, and the power of fresh, sun-ripened vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve gazpacho ice-cold in small bowls or glasses as a starter or appetizer.
Pair with crusty bread, Spanish tapas like olives and jamón, or a crisp glass of white wine or rosé.
FAQs About Gazpacho
Can I make gazpacho ahead of time?
Yes!
It tastes even better after chilling for several hours or overnight.
Can I freeze gazpacho?
You can, but the texture may change slightly after thawing — fresh is best.
What if my gazpacho is too thick?
Simply stir in a little extra cold water until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I skip the garlic if I don’t like it strong?
Of course — or use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Is gazpacho healthy?
Absolutely — it’s packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and heart-healthy olive oil.
Final Thoughts
Cool, vibrant, and packed with the fresh flavors of summer, Gazpacho is the perfect dish for lazy sunny days, festive gatherings, or anytime you crave something refreshing and light.
Simple, colorful, and endlessly delicious.
