It's that time of year when our local tomato harvest is at it's peak and tastier than at any other time of year. I love to enjoy them in a variety of ways. My childhood favourite; toasted tomato sandwich with mayo is still the ultimate quick treat. In fact, we had that today! My dear friend Greg, once treated us to a delicious cold soup featuring fresh tomatoes and it has been declared: The best Gazpacho ever by our family, at least!! It's more of a guideline than a recipe but I have no doubt that this will be sure to please! It's easy to make and packed with a blast of nutrients:
This classic of Spanish cuisine is thought to have originated in the south, in Andalusia. This soup is both refreshing and cooling and is still very popular today in both Portugal and Spain. There are as many versions as there are families who make it! I hope you'll try this delightful version, shared with me, years ago by my friend Greg. I'm sure there are many in Spain who have made this treat for centuries and would claim the title but we think that this is the best gazpacho ever!! Hoping you do too. It makes a fun title for my post + it IS delish!
There are a couple of important 'tips for best results' ~ Don't miss them!
Greg's Gazpacho ~ The Best Gazpacho ever!
Easy to make + SO good!
Ingredients
To blend
- ½ small red onion
- 1 red pepper
- 1 peeled cucumber
- 6 ripe tomatoes
To season
- 4-6 crushed garlic cloves
- 4-6 drops of Tabasco sauce
- 4 tablespoon of vinegar wine or balsamic
- 4-6 minced fresh basil leaves
- 2-3 tablespoon fresh lemon juice optional
- 2-4 cups of tomato juice
Instructions
-
Blend first set of ingredients in blender or food processor until smooth.
-
Add seasoning.
-
Add tomato juice to desired viscosity.
-
Refrigerate 24 to 36 hours before serving
-
Garnish with fresh Basil
Recipe Notes
Two KEYS to SUCCESS?
Use balsamic vinegar and make the soup at least 24 hours in advance.
Thanks Greg!!!
We served our soup with some delicious gluten-free bread.
ENJOY!!!
What's your favourite cold soup?
It's such a perfect soup ~ delicious + easy to make.
Toss together + wow your family!
With green blessings + wishes for healthy days always ~ ox Carol
Kari - Get Inspired Everyday!
This looks so perfect and refreshing! We're really getting into the heat of summer now, and this sounds perfect!
Raia Todd
I bet my hubby and oldest would love this. They are huge tomato anything fans! :)
Emily @ Recipes to Nourish
Summer bliss - it truly is since it's packed with all of that lovely summer produce. Even better when you can grab lots of the ingredients from your backyard.
Yvonne
What a wonderful way to use those summer tomatoes growing in the garden!
Lindsey Dietz
Yay for Tabasco! As a Southerner, it's a staple in our house (even if it's not organic!)!
ChihYu
Love chilled soup in hot summer. Also love the gorgeous flavor combo too !
Cathy
Toasted tomato sandwiches are of favourite childhood memory of mine as well! Basil and tomato are such a great classic combination.
Jean
Looks so refreshing! I love a good gazpacho, especially because it's so easy to fit in a ton of veggies!
Renee Kohley
My mouth is watering reading all those ingredients - love all the garlic - i can't wait to try this!
linda spiker
I must confess, I am terrible at growing tomatoes! But I'd still make this with store bought!
Carol Little
I buy tomatoes at the farmers market during the 'season'. i am growing but they are still flowers at this point! lol
Tessa the Domestic Diva
fresh tomatoes are soon to abound, and this looks like a fantastic option!!
Carol Little
Hope you'll try this Tessa -- So easy + the flavours are delightful -- especially if you follow the 2 keys to success!
Joni Gomes
Ohh I love that you add red pepper! I need to try it!