gazpacho

source: martha stewart


gazpacho has become a generic term for chilled vegetable soup, but traditionally it is spanish cuisine, especially popular in the southern region of andalusia. it is made with a base of tomato & bread along with other raw vegetables, & it is usually served cold in the summer months. it's a great dish to use up that bumper crop of tomatoes from the garden & day-old/stale bread. i absolutely love it!

2 cups cubed, crustless, day-old bread
2 cloves garlic {optional to boil it for 3 minutes to take away raw flavor}
2 pounds tomatoes, seeded {cut the top off & squeeze the seeds/guts into the trash}
4"piece cucumber, peeled & seeded
1" slice green bell pepper
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon sherry vinegar
1/2 cup olive oil
1 cup cold water {plus more for soaking}
salt & pepper


1. in a mixing bowl, soak the bread cubes in cold water for 15 minutes.

2. squeeze excess water from the bread & transfer to a blender or food processor.

3. add garlic, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, vinegars, & 2 teaspoons salt. puree until smooth.

4. still on low speed, add oil slowly through pour spout. blend in cold water. season with salt & pepper.

5. refrigerate for 3+ hours.

serve with a drizzle of olive oil & topped with homemade croutons.

6 servings | 6 points+ each