As the summer sun heats up New Jersey, nothing refreshes quite like a chilled bowl of soup packed with crisp vegetables and vibrant flavors. This easy gazpacho recipe, adapted from Jersey Girl Cooks, celebrates the peak of summer produce with juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, and fresh herbs—perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer for a backyard gathering.
Why Gazpacho Works for New Jersey Summers
Gazpacho isn’t just a soup—it’s a celebration of local gardens and farmers’ market bounty. Whether you’re harvesting ripe Jersey tomatoes or picking fresh basil from a sunny windowsill, the flavors are at their peak. Best of all, this recipe requires no cooking, making it an ideal choice for the hottest days when you’d rather stay cool than stand over a stove.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a classic, garden-fresh gazpacho, you’ll need:
- Tomatoes: Ripe Roma or heirloom varieties work best.
- Bell Pepper: Any color, cored and chopped.
- Cucumber: Peeled and diced; English cucumbers can be used without peeling.
- Shallot & Garlic: For a subtle savory kick.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Adds a bright herbal note; parsley works as a substitute.
- Red Wine or Sherry Vinegar: Provides tang and balance.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Richens the texture and flavor.
- Dried Oregano & Salt: To season and elevate the flavors.
Optional toppings include croutons, diced vegetables, fresh herbs, avocado, or a drizzle of olive oil for added texture and flair.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Veggies: Chop tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, shallot, and garlic into small pieces. Remove seeds from peppers for a smoother texture.
- Blend the Base: Combine cucumber, bell pepper, shallot, garlic, and basil in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Add Tomatoes & Seasonings: Add chopped tomatoes, olive oil, vinegar, oregano, and salt. Blend again for 2–3 minutes until completely smooth.
- Adjust & Chill: If too thick, add a few tablespoons of cold water. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Delicious Variations
- Traditional Spanish Style: Blend in a slice of day-old bread for a thicker texture.
- Herb Twists: Swap basil for mint, cilantro, or parsley for a fresh twist.
- Extra Flavor Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat.
- Creamy Version: Stir in plain Greek yogurt or coconut milk.
- Garnish Ideas: Diced avocado, croutons, chopped hard-boiled eggs, or crispy bacon.
Make It Your Summer Staple
Gazpacho is more than just a summer recipe—it’s a versatile dish that lets you showcase the best of New Jersey’s seasonal produce. Perfect for entertaining, meal prep, or a quick refreshment after a day at the shore, this chilled vegetable soup is easy, nutritious, and endlessly customizable.
For full recipe details, step-by-step instructions, and more refreshing seasonal ideas, check out the original recipe on Jersey Girl Cooks.
Explore more fresh, seasonal recipes and healthy meal inspiration at Explore New Jersey Recipes.
