BY CHEF KATIE MIST

Gazpacho

What to do with all of those gorgeous late summer tomatoes? ¡Gazpacho, por supuesto! This recipe is the quick, make-ahead answer to those hot hot days before fall settles in. It’s a big ol’ bowl of antioxidants, fiber and healthy fats to keep you feeling satisfied. Loaded with tomatoes, cucumbers and bell peppers it's basically the most delicious, and nutritious bowl of soup you'll ever have. While the soup is epic and will leave you wanting more, the garnishes are the stars of the show. Avocado and jalapeño are a standout favorite, imparting spice and smooth!

Cook Time: n/a | Prep time: 30 minutes | Serves/Serving: Serves 4

Ingredients

• 1 inch thick piece of country bread (traditional recipes will say to remove the crusts but I never do and it’s delish), torn into 1/2 inch pieces

• 1 English cucumber, roughly chopped

• 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped

• 1 red bell pepper, roughly chopped

• 1 large clove garlic

• 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar (red wine vinegar works too)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• Diced avocado (not traditional, so good)

• Diced cucumber

• Diced yellow bell pepper

• Sliced jalapeño (not traditional, but so good)

• Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Place bread in a small bowl, add enough water to cover, let soak for about 20-30 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, prep the remaining ingredients in a blender, add the cucumber, tomato, red bell, garlic, sherry vinegar, salt and pepper.

3. Squeeze the excess water from the soaked bread and add the bread to the blender.

4. Blend until smooth, then add the olive oil and blend until just combined.

5. Taste for seasoning and add more salt and pepper if desired.

6. If you’re unsure if it needs more salt, ladle a small amount into a bowl, add salt and taste it. Add salt, if desired.

7. Chill soup for at least 3 hours, or even overnight

8. Serve topped with desired garnishes and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

9. ProTip: We like to have a side dish of Lemon Garlic Shrimp!

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