Chilled tomato and watermelon gazpacho is a vibrant summer dish, perfect for hot days. Combining juicy tomatoes and sweet watermelon creates a revitalizing blend that’s both hydrating and nutritious. With added diced cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper for crunch, this gazpacho offers a burst of flavor. Enhance it with garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar. Perfectly chilled, it’s ideal for gatherings. Discover additional variations and serving suggestions to elevate this delightful recipe further.
Ingredients Needed for Gazpacho
Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho is a revitalizing summer dish that perfectly balances the sweetness of watermelon with the savory kick of tomatoes.
This vibrant, no-cook soup is ideal for gatherings, picnics, or a light lunch, and can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it a quick option for those hot summer days.
It’s a delightful way to enjoy fresh produce while staying cool and satisfied.
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups watermelon, cubed
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or mint leaves for garnish
Cooking Steps:
- In a large blender or food processor, combine the chopped tomatoes, watermelon cubes, cucumber, red onion, and red bell pepper.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, olive oil, and red wine vinegar. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Season the gazpacho with salt and pepper to taste. Blend again briefly to mix in the seasoning.
- Pour the gazpacho into a large bowl or individual serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill and let the flavors meld.
- Before serving, give the gazpacho a gentle stir. Garnish with fresh basil or mint leaves for an added touch of revitalization.
Variations and Tips:
- For a spicier version, add a splash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños.
- To make it heartier, consider adding diced avocado or cooked quinoa.
- Swap out vegetable broth with coconut water for a sweeter twist.
- Serve with crusty bread or grilled shrimp skewers for a complete meal.
- This gazpacho can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep.
Preparing the Tomatoes
Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho is a revitalizing summer dish that brings together the bright flavors of ripe tomatoes and sweet watermelon. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light starter, this gazpacho is not only delicious but also healthy—an ideal choice for those seeking a nutritious and satisfying bowl of soup.
The total preparation time for this dish is about 15-20 minutes, allowing you to whip it up quickly for a spontaneous al fresco meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe tomatoes
- 2 cups watermelon, diced
- 1 small cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Cooking Steps:
1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Start by blanching the tomatoes. Bring a pot of water to a boil, and prepare an ice bath in a bowl. Score the bottom of each tomato with an ‘X’ using a sharp knife, then place them in the boiling water for 30 seconds.
Remove them promptly and plunge them into the ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, peel the skins off and chop the tomatoes, removing any seeds if desired.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, add the peeled and chopped tomatoes, diced watermelon, cucumber, red onion, minced garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend: Blend the mixture until smooth. You can adjust the consistency by adding a little water if you prefer a thinner gazpacho, or blend less for a chunkier texture.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the gazpacho and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt, pepper, or vinegar to enhance the flavors.
5. Chill: Transfer the gazpacho to a large bowl or pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together and for it to chill thoroughly.
6. Serve: When ready, ladle the gazpacho into bowls, and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Variations and Tips:
- For a kick, add a diced jalapeño or other hot pepper to the blender.
- Experiment with herbs such as mint or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Consider adding a fruit element like honeydew or cantaloupe to deepen the sweetness.
- Serve with crispy croutons or toasted bread on the side for added texture.
- For a creamy variant, blend in a ripe avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt just before serving.
Enjoy this vibrant Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho as a delightful way to beat the heat on summer days!
Choosing the Perfect Watermelon
Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho is a revitalizing and vibrant dish that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the savory notes of ripe tomatoes, making it perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light appetizer.
This gorgeous cold soup is ideal for those seeking a unique and healthful option to cool off during hot weather. The preparation time for this dish is about 15 minutes, and it can be served immediately or chilled further for an even more revitalizing experience.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups ripe watermelon, cubed
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: diced avocado, croutons, additional basil
Cooking Steps:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the cubed watermelon and chopped tomatoes. Blend until smooth.
- Add the diced cucumber, red onion, minced garlic, and chopped basil to the watermelon and tomato mixture. Blend again until well combined but still slightly chunky.
- Drizzle in the olive oil and red wine vinegar, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Blend briefly to incorporate.
- Transfer the gazpacho to a serving bowl or pitcher and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled, garnished with optional toppings such as diced avocado, croutons, or additional basil.
Variations and Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add a small jalapeño or red pepper to the blender.
- Swap basil for mint for a different flavor profile.
- Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as balsamic or apple cider, for unique taste variations.
- To enhance presentation, serve in individual cups with a garnish of a cucumber slice or a watermelon wedge on the rim.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Additional Vegetables and Herbs
Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho is a vibrant, invigorating dish perfect for hot summer days. This light, no-cook soup combines the sweetness of watermelon with the acidity of ripe tomatoes, making it an ideal appetizer or light meal for those looking to enjoy a flavorful, healthful option without a lot of effort.
Preparation time is quick, taking only about 20 minutes to prepare, with the dish benefiting from time in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups watermelon, diced
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Croutons and extra basil for garnish
Cooking Steps:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped tomatoes, watermelon, cucumber, red and green bell peppers, red onion, garlic, and fresh herbs (basil and mint).
- Add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix all the ingredients gently to avoid bruising the produce.
- Using an immersion blender or a food processor, blend the mixture until smooth, leaving some chunks for texture if desired.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed.
- Chill the gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.
- Serve chilled, garnished with croutons and additional basil if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For added heat, consider incorporating a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
- Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or heirloom tomatoes, to personalize the flavor profile.
- You can also substitute the basil and mint with cilantro for a different herbaceous note.
- Serve with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for an added layer of sweetness and acidity.
- This gazpacho can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to intensify even more.
Blending the Base
Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho is a invigorating, vibrant dish perfect for warm weather and ideal for those looking for a light, healthy option or a palate cleanser. This chilled soup combines ripe tomatoes and sweet watermelon, resulting in a unique flavor profile that’s both savory and sweet.
Perfect for a summer gathering, this dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and is best served cold, making it an effortless menu addition for entertaining guests or enjoying a solo treat.
Ingredients:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, quartered
- 2 cups watermelon, cubed
- 1 small cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1/2 small red onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the quartered tomatoes, cubed watermelon, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, and minced garlic.
- Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth, approximately 1-2 minutes. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend for a shorter time or pulse the blender.
- Add the red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the blender, then blend again briefly to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar to suit your preferences.
- Transfer the mixture to a large bowl or pitcher, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill and allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the gazpacho a good stir and pour into serving bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Variations and Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce before blending.
- Experiment with herbs like cilantro or mint for a different flavor profile.
- Instead of red wine vinegar, try apple cider vinegar for a subtle sweetness.
- Serve the gazpacho with a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added depth.
- Consider blending in other seasonal fruits such as peach or mango for a fruitier variation.
- Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Balancing Flavors With Seasonings
Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho is a revitalizing and vibrant dish, perfect for summer gatherings or a light appetizer. This delightful cold soup brings together the earthy sweetness of ripe tomatoes and juicy watermelon, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Ideal for those seeking a healthy, vegan-friendly option that’s both hydrating and packed with nutrients, this gazpacho can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it an excellent choice for last-minute entertaining.
Ingredients:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- 2 cups cubed watermelon
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Cooking Steps:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the diced tomatoes, watermelon, cucumber, red onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Blend until smooth, but leave a bit of texture if desired.
- Add the chopped basil, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Blend again until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Taste the gazpacho and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for additional heat, if desired.
- Refrigerate the gazpacho for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and chill thoroughly.
- Serve the chilled gazpacho in bowls and garnish with additional chopped basil or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or avocado.
- Experiment with other herbs, such as mint or cilantro, to give the dish a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer a sweeter gazpacho, increase the amount of watermelon or add a drizzle of honey or agave syrup.
- For a more chunky texture, reserve some diced vegetables and stir them into the gazpacho just before serving.
- Serve alongside crusty bread or as a revitalizing starter before a summer barbecue.
Enjoy your balanced and flavorful Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho!
Chill Time: Why It’s Important
Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho is a revitalizing and vibrant cold soup that embodies the flavors of summer. Perfect for hot days, this dish is ideal for those looking for a light appetizer or a unique starter for a gathering.
With a preparation time of just 20 minutes, it’s a quick and easy option that brings together the sweet notes of watermelon and the savory depth of ripe tomatoes.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 cups watermelon, peeled and cubed
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or yellow)
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Optional: a dash of hot sauce
Cooking Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped tomatoes, watermelon, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and garlic. Blend until smooth, but leave some texture if desired.
2. Slowly add the olive oil and red wine vinegar while continuing to blend until fully incorporated.
3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, you can add a dash of hot sauce at this stage.
4. Transfer the gazpacho to a large bowl or container and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Chilling is essential as it allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the revitalizing qualities of the soup.
5. Before serving, stir the gazpacho well. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Ladle the chilled gazpacho into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Variations and Tips:
- For added texture, consider incorporating finely diced vegetables like radishes or extra cucumber as a garnish.
- Swap the watermelon for cantaloupe or honeydew for a different sweet profile.
- This gazpacho can also be made ahead of time; it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Experiment with herbs, such as cilantro or mint, for a different flavor twist.
- Serve with crusty bread or croutons for a heartier meal.
Serving Suggestions
Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho is a revitalizing and vibrant dish perfect for hot summer days or as a light appetizer for gatherings. This delightful blend of sweet watermelon and ripe tomatoes creates a unique and flavorful cold soup that is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients.
Preparation time is a quick and easy 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those short on time but looking to impress guests or enjoy a cooling meal at home.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups watermelon, cubed and seeded
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1/2 red onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Cooking Steps:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped tomatoes, watermelon, cucumber, red onion, red bell pepper, and garlic.
- Blend until smooth, adjusting the consistency with water if needed.
- Add the olive oil and red wine vinegar, and blend again until fully incorporated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and blend for a few more seconds to mix.
- Chill the gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve cold in bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Variations and Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce.
- Substitute cantaloupe or honeydew for watermelon for a different flavor profile.
- Incorporate other herbs like mint or cilantro for additional freshness.
- For added texture, reserve some diced vegetables to stir in just before serving.
- Serve with crusty artisan bread or alongside grilled shrimp for a complete meal.
Garnishing Your Gazpacho
Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho is a rejuvenating, vibrant dish that perfectly combines the sweetness of watermelon with the acidity of ripe tomatoes. Ideal for warm summer days, this no-cook soup acts as a light starter or a revitalizing main course, making it a favorite among vegans and health-conscious individuals.
Preparation time is minimal; you can whip this dish together in about 15 minutes, with an additional chilling time of 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cups watermelon, cubed
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- Toasted bread croutons (optional)
Cooking Steps:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, watermelon, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper.
- Using a blender or food processor, puree about half of the mixture until smooth, then stir it back into the remaining chunky mixture for a textured gazpacho.
- Drizzle in the olive oil and red wine vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to make sure the gazpacho is chilled and the flavors are well melded.
- Just before serving, taste the gazpacho and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Variations and Tips:
- For an extra kick, consider adding a diced jalapeño or some hot sauce to the mixture before blending.
- Experiment with garnishes: aside from fresh basil, consider using cilantro, mint, or even microgreens for a pop of flavor and color.
- If you like a creamier texture, you can blend in a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt or avocado.
- To add a crunchy texture, top each bowl with toasted bread croutons or a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds.
- For an elegant presentation, serve in chilled bowls and drizzle with a bit of balsamic glaze or add a few droplets of olive oil on top before garnishing.
Pairing Beverages With Gazpacho
Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho is an innovative and invigorating summer dish, ideal for those looking to enjoy a light meal that’s bursting with fresh flavors.
This vibrant, cold soup combines the natural sweetness of watermelon with the acidity of tomatoes, making it a perfect starter or a light lunch option. It requires only about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus chilling time, making it a quick and easy dish for gatherings, picnics, or as a delightful way to cool down on hot days.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups watermelon, cubed and seeded
- 1 small cucumber, peeled and chopped
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or mint, for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the chopped tomatoes, watermelon, cucumber, red onion, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
- Add the olive oil and red wine vinegar to the mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Blend again until fully incorporated.
- Adjust the thickness of the gazpacho by adding a bit of water if needed, then blend again.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, then transfer the gazpacho to a bowl or pitcher.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve in chilled bowls or glasses, garnished with fresh basil or mint.
Variations & Tips:
- For added texture, reserve some diced watermelon and cucumbers to add as a garnish when serving.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a small jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to the blender.
- For a creamier version, blend in a small avocado with the other ingredients.
- To elevate your gazpacho experience, pair it with a fruity white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc, a invigoratingly light rosé, or a sparkling water infused with lemon or cucumber.
These beverages will complement the sweetness and tanginess of the soup beautifully.
– Serve alongside crusty bread or cheese platters for a more substantial meal.
Storing Leftovers
Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho is a rejuvenating summer soup that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the savory notes of ripe tomatoes, making it a perfect dish for hot days.
This vibrant and colorful gazpacho is ideal for anyone looking for a light, nutritious meal or appetizer that is both delicious and visually appealing. The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for gatherings, picnics, or a rejuvenating lunch at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups watermelon, diced
- 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Cooking Steps:
- In a blender, combine the chopped tomatoes, diced watermelon, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and garlic.
- Blend the mixture until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend until just combined or pulse a few times.
- Add the olive oil and red wine vinegar, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Blend again to combine.
- Transfer the gazpacho to a large bowl or pitcher, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill and allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the gazpacho in chilled bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Variations & Tips:
- For an added kick, consider adding a jalapeño or other hot peppers to the blender.
- Swap out the red wine vinegar for lime juice for a zesty twist.
- You can add a splash of tomato juice or vegetable broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.
- Serve with croutons or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The gazpacho can be kept for up to 3 days; however, the flavors may intensify over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. Before serving any stored gazpacho, give it a good stir to recombine the ingredients.
Variations on the Recipe
Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho is a revitalizing, vibrant dish perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light lunch.
This delightful soup combines the sweetness of juicy watermelon with the savory essence of ripe tomatoes, creating a beautifully balanced flavor that is sure to impress.
Ideal for those following a plant-based diet or anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, no-cook meal, this gazpacho recipe can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it an excellent choice for last-minute entertaining.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups of watermelon, cubed
- 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Cooking Steps:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped tomatoes, watermelon, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and garlic.
- Blend until smooth, leaving a bit of texture if preferred.
- Add the olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and blend again to incorporate.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary.
- Chill the gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve cold, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Variations:
- Herbs: Experiment with different herbs such as mint, cilantro, or dill to enhance the flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Fruit Variations: Substitute part of the watermelon with other fruits like honeydew or strawberries to create a unique flavor.
- Texture: For a chunkier texture, reserve some diced vegetables and fold them into the soup before serving.
Tips:
- Choose the ripest tomatoes and sweetest watermelon for the best flavor.
- Serve with a drizzle of additional olive oil or a dollop of avocado for extra richness.
- Pair the gazpacho with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Feel free to get creative with your ingredients and find the combination that delights your taste buds!
Nutritional Benefits of Gazpacho
Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho is a revitalizing and vibrant cold soup that combines the delicious flavors of ripe tomatoes and sweet watermelon. This dish is perfect for hot summer days and is a great way to cool off while enjoying a light and healthy vegetarian option.
Ideal for anyone looking to boost their nutrient intake, this gazpacho is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and hydration. The preparation time is about 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy dish to whip up for lunch or dinner, or even as an impressive appetizer for guests.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups watermelon, seedless and cubed
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth or tomato juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or mint leaves for garnish
Cooking Steps
- In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped tomatoes, watermelon, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
- Slowly add the vegetable broth or tomato juice to the mixture, blending until you achieve your desired consistency (smooth or slightly chunky).
- Stir in the olive oil and red wine vinegar, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Blend again briefly to combine.
- Chill the gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the gazpacho in bowls, garnished with fresh basil or mint leaves.
Variations and Tips
- For added flavor, mix in a splash of hot sauce or diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Experiment by adding other vegetables like celery or radishes for extra crunch.
- You can replace watermelon with cantaloupe or honeydew for a different sweet profile.
- Serve the gazpacho with crusty bread or croutons for a more filling meal.
- For a creamier texture, blend in a small avocado during the initial blending step.
- Gazpacho can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Tips for a Smooth Consistency
Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho is a revitalizing and vibrant summer soup that perfectly balances the sweetness of watermelon and the acidity of ripe tomatoes. This dish is ideal for those looking to enjoy a light, healthy meal during hot weather, or as a unique appetizer for gatherings.
The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy dish to whip up when you need something cool and energizing.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
- 2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or mint for garnish
Cooking Steps:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped tomatoes, watermelon, cucumber, green bell pepper, red onion, and garlic.
- Blend the mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency. To achieve an ultra-smooth texture, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth after blending to remove any pulp or chunky bits.
- Add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend again briefly to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a splash of cold water or more watermelon juice and blend again.
- Chill the gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve in bowls, garnished with fresh basil or mint for an extra touch.
Variations and Tips:
- For an added layer of flavor, try incorporating a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Swap out the green bell pepper for a yellow or orange one for a sweeter twist.
- For added creaminess, consider adding a spoonful of Greek yogurt into the mix before blending.
- Serve the gazpacho in individual cups or shot glasses as a sophisticated appetizer at gatherings.
- If using canned tomatoes, opt for high-quality San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor, and be sure to drain them well before blending.
Enjoy your deliciously smooth Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho, perfect for a hot summer day!
Why Gazpacho Is a Summer Staple
Gazpacho is a revitalizing cold soup, perfect for hot summer days. This Chilled Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho combines the sweetness of ripe watermelon with savory tomatoes, creating a unique and vibrant dish that is both hydrating and flavorful.
Ideal for outdoor gatherings, picnics, or a light lunch, this recipe serves about 4-6 people and takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and delightful summer staple.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups seedless watermelon, chopped
- 1 small cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or mint leaves, for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped tomatoes, watermelon, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and garlic.
- Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth.
- Drizzle in the olive oil and red wine vinegar, blending again until fully incorporated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, blending to combine.
- Pour the gazpacho into a large bowl or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill and allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, stir the gazpacho and taste for seasoning, adjusting as necessary.
- Serve chilled in bowls, garnished with fresh basil or mint leaves.
Variations and Tips:
- Add a splash of lime juice for extra tang and freshness.
- For a spicier version, incorporate chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
- You can substitute some of the tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor.
- To enhance the texture, reserve some diced vegetables (tomato, cucumber, bell pepper) and stir them into the gazpacho just before serving.
- Garnish with croutons or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for added flavor and presentation.
Enjoy your chilled tomato and watermelon gazpacho as a delightful way to stay cool during the sweltering summer months!