Tomato gazpacho is a delicious and refreshing cold soup that’s perfect for warm days. Made with ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a hint of spice, this vibrant dish is light yet packed with bold flavors. It’s easy to prepare and can be served as an appetizer or a healthy, light meal. Let’s dive into this homemade gazpacho recipe that’s sure to leave you craving more!
Ingredients:
- 800-900 grams ripe tomatoes
- 50 ml olive oil
- 25 ml vinegar (9% acidity)
- 30 ml water
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 3 teaspoons sugar
- 1 bell pepper, roughly chopped
- 1/2 chili pepper (adjust to taste for spice level)
- 6 cloves garlic
- A small bunch of dill and parsley (roughly chopped)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Begin by blanching the tomatoes to easily remove their skins. Make a small “X” incision at the bottom of each tomato. Drop the tomatoes into boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to a bowl of ice water. Once cooled, peel off the skins and roughly chop the tomatoes.
2. Blend the Vegetables:
- In a blender or food processor, add the peeled and chopped tomatoes, chopped bell pepper, chili pepper (adjust the amount based on your spice preference), and garlic cloves. Blend until smooth.
3. Add Seasoning and Liquids:
- Once the vegetables are blended, add the olive oil, vinegar, water, salt, and sugar to the mixture. Blend again until the ingredients are fully combined and the soup has a smooth consistency.
- Taste the gazpacho and adjust the salt, sugar, or vinegar if needed to balance the flavors to your liking.
4. Incorporate the Fresh Herbs:
- Add the freshly chopped dill and parsley to the blender. Pulse briefly to incorporate the herbs, ensuring they are well mixed into the gazpacho without over-pureeing them.
5. Chill the Gazpacho:
- Transfer the gazpacho to a large bowl or airtight container and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled. Gazpacho is best served cold, allowing the flavors to meld and develop.
6. Serve:
- When ready to serve, give the gazpacho a good stir and pour it into bowls or glasses. Garnish with additional chopped herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or even some diced vegetables like cucumbers or onions if desired.
Conclusion:
This homemade tomato gazpacho is a vibrant, refreshing dish perfect for hot days or as a light appetizer. With the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes, a touch of heat from chili pepper, and the freshness of dill and parsley, this gazpacho offers a harmonious balance of flavors. It’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it a go-to recipe for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. Enjoy this cool and flavorful treat!