Welcome to a refreshing twist on a classic summer dish: Garden Herb Gazpacho. This chilled soup is your perfect companion for those warm days when turning on the stove feels like a chore. Bursting with fresh herbs and ripe vegetables, itβs like a garden party in a bowl.
Tomatoes are the star of the show, offering a juicy, tangy base. Choose ripe, red ones for the best flavor. Cucumber adds a cool, crisp texture, balancing the acidity. The bell pepper brings a slight sweetness and more depth. Red onion offers a mild zing, while garlic gives a punch of flavor. Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and parsley elevate the soup with aromatic notes. Olive oil lends a silky finish, and red wine vinegar adds tanginess. Salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper enhance the flavors, while the vegetable broth provides a smooth consistency. Finally, a dash of lemon juice brightens everything up.
Serve your Garden Herb Gazpacho as an appetizer in small cups or as a main course in larger bowls. For a delightful texture contrast, top with homemade croutons or a sprinkle of toasted seeds. Pair it with a crusty baguette or a light, zesty salad for a complete meal. A glass of chilled white wine or iced tea makes a refreshing accompaniment.
Start by gathering all your vegetables: tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and garlic. Chop them up; don't worry about precision, as they'll be blended soon. Toss them into your blender and blend until smooth and vibrant. Next, add the fresh herbs β basil, cilantro, parsley β along with olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Give it another whirl in the blender until everything is well combined and the herbs are evenly distributed. Slowly pour in the vegetable broth and squeeze in the lemon juice, blending until you reach your desired consistency. Taste your gazpacho and adjust the seasoning if it needs a little more salt or pepper. Once happy with the flavors, transfer the soup to a container and chill it in the refrigerator for at least two hours to let the flavors meld and the soup cool down.