Ah, watermelon—the quintessential summer fruit that seems to capture the sunshine in its juicy, sweet bites. It’s like nature’s candy with a splash of coolness, perfect for those sweltering days when the air feels like a warm hug that you didn’t ask for. But what if we took this delightful fruit and transformed it into something unexpected, like a gazpacho? Imagine a bowl full of vibrant color and a symphony of flavors, each spoonful more refreshing than the last.
Steps
- Place half of the diced cucumber, tomatoes, red bell pepper, and green onions into a blender along with all the cubed watermelon.
- Add garlic, basil, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, and jalapeño (if using) to the blender.
- Blend the mixture until it reaches a completely smooth consistency.
- Pour the blended mixture into a large bowl or individual jars and mix in the reserved diced vegetables.
- Refrigerate the gazpacho for at least 3 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, drizzle with extra olive oil and garnish with diced avocado or microgreens if desired.
Ingredients
- 4 heaping cups cubed seedless watermelon
- 1 English cucumber, diced (reserve half)
- 3 medium tomatoes, diced (reserve half)
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced (reserve half)
- ? cup chopped green onions, diced (reserve half)
- 1 garlic clove
- Small handful of fresh basil
- 3 to 4 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 to 2 teaspoons sea salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ jalapeño pepper, optional
- Diced avocado, optional for garnish
- Microgreens, optional for garnish
FAQ
- Can I make watermelon gazpacho without it tasting overly sweet?
- Absolutely! While watermelon is a sweet fruit, this gazpacho balances its subtle sweetness with savory ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, red bell pepper, and herbs. The result is a rich, tangy, and complex flavor profile that isn’t too sweet.
- Is it necessary to add jalapeño to the gazpacho?
- Adding jalapeño is optional and depends on your preference for spiciness. If you enjoy a bit of heat, the jalapeño can enhance the flavor of the soup. However, you can leave it out if you prefer a milder taste.
- How long should I chill the watermelon gazpacho before serving?
- For the best flavor, chill the gazpacho for at least 3 hours, or even overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and develop, resulting in a more delicious and refreshing soup.
- What are some good garnishes and side dishes for watermelon gazpacho?
- Popular garnishes include diced avocado, microgreens, sour cream, or plain Greek yogurt. You can also serve it with crusty bread or pair it with a salad or sandwich, such as a Caprese Sandwich or Chickpea Salad Sandwich, for a more substantial meal.
- Are there any other cold soups similar to watermelon gazpacho that I could try?
- Yes, there are several refreshing cold soups you might enjoy, such as Easy Tomato Gazpacho, Cucumber Gazpacho, Sweet Corn Gazpacho, and Carrot Coconut Soup. If you’re a fan of watermelon, you might also like to try Watermelon Salad with Feta and Lime Juice or Watermelon Margaritas.
Tips
- Chill for Flavor Development: Make sure to let the gazpacho chill for at least 3 hours or even overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste and complexity of the soup.
- Balance the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to omit the jalapeño. You can always add a little at a time and taste as you go to find the right level of spice for your palate.
- Customize Your Garnishes: Experiment with different toppings like diced avocado, microgreens, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. These can add texture and additional flavor to your gazpacho.
- Versatile Pairings: Enjoy this refreshing soup on its own with some crusty bread, or pair it with a salad or sandwich for a more substantial meal. Consider serving it with Mediterranean sides like hummus or baba ganoush for a delightful combination.
Equipment
- High-powered blender: Essential for pureeing the ingredients into a smooth soup.
- Large mixing bowl: Useful for combining and storing the gazpacho after blending.
- Individual serving jars: If you prefer to store or serve the gazpacho in individual portions.
- Microplane or garlic press: Optional, for finely processing the garlic if desired.
