If your summer garden is abundant with plump, luscious red tomatoes, transport yourself to Southern Spain with this easy gazpacho recipe! It’s easily one of my favourite, refreshing, chilled summer soups because it’s simple to make, smooth, and bursting with flavour. All you need is a few simple ingredients and a blender!
Now let me tell you all about this go-to gazpacho recipe so that you can enjoy it with your family at home pronto!
In case you didn’t know, gazpacho is a cold Spanish soup that originated in the Southernmost region of Spain known as Andalusia. It’s well loved for its refreshing and vibrant flavours and is most commonly served as a light appetizer or side dish during the hot summer months when tomatoes are in peak season and many are avoiding using their stovetops, due to the heat!
(If you prefer hot tomato soup – don’t worry, I’ve got you covered for that too. Check out my Vegan Tomato Basil Soup for a warming bowl, using canned tomatoes for the winter months when fresh tomatoes are past their prime).
Authentic gazpacho is traditionally made from a combination of fresh vegetables and other flavour-rich spices and herbs, all of which are blended together to create a chilled and flavourful soup!
How long will gazpacho last in the refrigerator?
This easy gazpacho recipe will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s perfect for meal prep when you’d like to have a healthy recipe ready in advance. Simply stir well before serving!
Why is gazpacho eaten cold?
The reason this classic cold Spanish soup isn’t served warm is simply due to the soup’s origin. The southern Spanish region of Andalusia is incredibly hot during the summer months and the creation of this soup was meant to cool you down and keep you hydrated during the hot summers. Further, the cold temperature allows the flavours of the fresh tomatoes and cucumbers to be enhanced.
Ask the Test Kitchen: How Long Will Meat Last in the Fridge?
How long should gazpacho be refrigerated?
Chill the gazpacho: Put in the fridge and let it chill for at least 2 hours. Remember to taste before serving and add more seasoning if needed. Just before serving, take the vegetables that you set aside and finely dice them. Serve them in separate small bowls so everyone can add what they like to the soup.
Can gazpacho be frozen?
If you prefer your gazpacho to have a chunky texture, it’s best not to freeze it. Freezing and thawing can cause the vegetables to break down and become mushy, which will affect the texture of your soup. Instead, make your gazpacho fresh and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Where should gazpacho be stored?
The best place to store gazpacho is in the coldest part of your fridge, which is usually the back of the bottom shelf. This is because the temperature in this part of the fridge is the most consistent, which helps prevent bacteria growth and keeps your gazpacho fresh for longer.
How long does cucumber gazpacho last?
Cucumber gazpacho will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Since cucumber is mostly made up of water, the gazpacho may separate. If that happens, simply whisk it before serving, or return it to the blender for a few seconds. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of hot house ones?