The Original Spanish Recipe for Authentic Gazpacho

This is more of a drink than a soup, and a bowl of cool, refreshing Authentic Gazpacho is a great way to beat the summer heat. This vibrant and chilled soup is a delicious blend of ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, and zesty peppers soaked in olive oil and a splash of vinegar.

This meal is suitable as an appetizer, side dish, or light main course. Not only is it fresh and healthy, but this Mediterranean dish is unbelievably easy to make.

What is Gazpacho?

The name Gazpacho is of Arabic origin, meaning soaked bread, and is a chilled tomato-based soup from Spain, particularly in the Andalusian region. It has been around for centuries and is often the go-to meal when you’re craving something cold. Traditionally, gazpacho is made with bread, water, olive oil, vinegar, and garlic. However, this meal has varied slightly over time and evolved to include the veggie-packed version you know today.

Gazpacho was once considered a “poor man’s food,” shocking, right? But today, it’s enjoyed by everyone from humble home cooks to fancy restaurants.

Pro tips for the Best Gazpacho

• The secret to a good Gazpacho is fresh tomatoes. Ripe tomatoes cringe that sweet flavor that makes gazpacho irresistible.
• Gazpacho is best served cold, so you can chill your ingredients before making this meal.
• Don’t underestimate the role a good olive oil plays in bringing this soup to life. It adds richness and depth to your soup.
• Blend until smooth or chunky; it's your choice. Some like it silky smooth, while others prefer a bit more texture.

What is the Best Way to Serve Gazpacho?

This refreshing soup is known for its versatility. It can be served in a glass or bowl. You can make it an appetizer by drinking it, or a full-blown meal by adding toppings and vegetables.

What Are the Best Tomatoes to Use for Gazpacho?

The best tomatoes for gazpacho are ripe, juicy varieties like Roma or Vine-ripened tomatoes, which offer a rich flavor and smooth texture. For a sweeter twist, try using cherry tomatoes. Variations include adding heirloom tomatoes for a more colorful and complex flavor or using yellow tomatoes to create a milder, less acidic gazpacho. You can also experiment by adding fruits like watermelon or strawberries for a refreshing, fruity take on the classic dish.

Why is Gazpacho Eaten Cold?

Gazpacho is traditionally served cold because it's a refreshing dish designed to cool you down, especially during hot weather. Its chilled temperature enhances the flavors of the raw vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, making the dish more vibrant and crisp. Additionally, serving it cold preserves the natural freshness and texture of the ingredients, offering a light and cooling contrast to warm meals. It's essentially a refreshing, savory drinkable salad!

Can I Freeze Gazpacho?

Yes, you can, but it is best enjoyed fresh. Remember that it might lose some of its texture after thawing, so be sure to give it a good mix once it is defrosted.

Is Gazpacho Healthy?

Without a doubt! It is low in calories and high in fiber and nutrients. It's not only light and refreshing but incredibly nutritious.

What Can I Serve With Gazpacho?

Gazpacho pairs wonderfully with crusty bread like a baguette or garlic croutons for added crunch. You can also serve it with tapas, such as olives, cured meats, or cheese for a more authentic Spanish experience. For heartier sides, try a grilled cheese sandwich or a Spanish tortilla. Simple salads or a side of grilled shrimp also make great companions, adding some texture and protein to balance the lightness of the soup.

More Tomato Recipes You Need to Try Your Hand At!

Pan-Fried Tomatoes

Tomatoes in Oil

Upside Down Tomato Tart

Italian Style Tomato Gratin

Tomato Burrata Spaghetti

How To Store Gazpacho

Gazpacho can be stored for up to 3 days, but it relies on freshness to produce a fresh taste. If you want to store it longer, then freezing is the best way to go.

How to Make Gazpacho

Step 1

Step 1

Add the slices of bread to a small bowl, along with some water and white vinegar. Let it sit for a bit so the bread softens.

Add the slices of bread to a small bowl, along with some water and white vinegar. Let it sit for a bit so the bread softens.

Step 2

Step 2

Now for the veggies! Slice up those bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions like a pro (or like someone who just really loves soup). You don’t need to go all MasterChef; you just need to prepare them for their blender debut.

Now for the veggies! Slice up those bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions like a pro (or like someone who just really loves soup). You don’t need to go all MasterChef; you just need to prepare them for their blender debut.

Step 3

Step 3

Toss the veggies into the blender until you get a smooth, vibrant mix. Now, add in the soaked bread, olive oil, salt, and pepper, and give it another spin until everything’s perfectly blended.

Toss the veggies into the blender until you get a smooth, vibrant mix. Now, add in the soaked bread, olive oil, salt, and pepper, and give it another spin until everything’s perfectly blended.

Step 4

Step 4

Pour your gazpacho into a bowl and top it with extra veggies or crunchy croutons. Drizzle a little more olive oil, and you’ve just made a bowl of chilled Spanish sunshine.

Pour your gazpacho into a bowl and top it with extra veggies or crunchy croutons. Drizzle a little more olive oil, and you’ve just made a bowl of chilled Spanish sunshine.

Step 5

Step 5

Dig in and enjoy!

Dig in and enjoy!