Gazpacho is the quintessential warm-weather dish — cool, vibrant, and bursting with fresh flavor. Originating from southern Spain, this chilled tomato-based soup is a celebration of ripe vegetables, olive oil, and a touch of vinegar. It’s light but satisfying, refreshing but deeply flavorful, making it a go-to meal or starter when the heat makes heavier dishes less appealing.
At the heart of a traditional gazpacho are tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, and garlic. These ingredients are blended until smooth or slightly chunky, depending on preference, then chilled to intensify the flavors. A good drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar add richness and acidity, rounding out the soup’s naturally sweet and savory notes. The result is a soup that feels more like a drinkable salad — nourishing, hydrating, and packed with flavor.
The appeal of gazpacho lies not only in its taste but in its simplicity. It requires no cooking, which means the kitchen stays cool, and the prep is quick. It’s also endlessly customizable. Some versions include bread blended into the mix for body and creaminess, while others skip it for a lighter finish. You can play with the ratios of the vegetables to suit your taste or add spicy elements like jalapeños for heat.
Gazpacho is often served in small bowls, mugs, or even shot glasses for easy sipping. It’s perfect as an appetizer, especially for summer gatherings, barbecues, or tapas-style meals. Garnishing with diced vegetables, herbs, croutons, or a swirl of yogurt adds texture and visual appeal. It also pairs beautifully with crusty bread, grilled seafood, or a simple salad.
This iconic soup proves that sometimes the best dishes are the simplest — no heat, no fuss, just fresh ingredients and a blender. Gazpacho is summer in a bowl, refreshing and full of character.

Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes chopped
- 1 cucumber peeled and chopped
- 1 green bell pepper chopped
- 1 small red onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- to taste salt and black pepper
- 1 cup cold water or more as needed
Instructions
- Combine tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and garlic in a blender.
- Add red wine vinegar and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add cold water to reach your preferred consistency, blending again if necessary.
- Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
I tried making this but forgot the garlic. Still good, but missing something.
This gazpacho is so fresh and delicious! Perfect for summer days.
I don’t get why people like cold soup. Just feels weird to me.
I totally get that! Cold soups are an acquired taste. I used to think the same, but Gazpacho changed my mind!
I don’t like vinegar in my soup. Made it super tangy for me.
Too much fancy ingredients. Can’t I just use ketchup? 🤔
SO GOOD!!!!!!! Can’t wait to have this again!!!
I dunno, cold soup sounds weird to me. Can’t imagine wanting that again.
I know right? It’s the perfect summer dish! Super refreshing!
Eh, wasn’t my favorite. My friend loved it tho.
Just okay. I prefer my soup hot. Gazpacho seems like a salad drink.
I get what you mean! Gazpacho is definitely an acquired taste. I love it with some extra spice!
Tasty! but I added some avocado on top for creaminess. Worth it!
Avocado sounds like a great touch! I usually add a little lemon juice too. Thanks for sharing!
Loved it! Reminds me of my grandma’s recipe, but she used lime instead.