How to Make Gazpacho (Chilled Tomato Soup)

Soups and vegetable creams are incredibly excellent, especially when you want something cozy, nutritional, economical, and simple to prepare. However, they cause us to sweat since they're usually served hot. In other words, they are great in the winter, but you should think twice before having a fantastic soup in the summer.

This issue, however, is easily resolved when gazpacho is included in the daily lunch selections. The benefit is that this soup is cold, so it acts as a refreshing dish; also, it retains the properties of most soups, such as pleasant flavor and convenience of preparation.

Originating from Andalusia, this refreshing dish was once a humble peasant meal and is now a summertime staple in kitchens worldwide. In this guide on how to make gazpacho (chilled tomato soup), I’ll walk you through every detail.

How to Make Gazpacho (Chilled Tomato Soup) 

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes | Chill Time: 1–2 hours

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• • 2 lbs ripe tomatoes (cored and roughly chopped)
  • 1 cucumber (peeled, seeded, chopped)
  • 1 red bell pepper (seeded, chopped)
  • 1/2 red onion (chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced with a garlic press)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1–2 cups tomato juice (optional for thinner consistency)
  • Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep your vegetables. Using a sharp knife from our knife set, chop tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and onions evenly.

Step 2: Place chopped vegetables into a large mixing bowl. Add minced garlic (use a garlic rocker for best flavor extraction).

Step 3: Transfer vegetables to a blender. Add olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, or leave slightly chunky for a rustic texture.

Step 4: Taste and adjust seasoning. If desired, add tomato juice for a thinner consistency.

Step 5: Pour into an airtight container and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours to allow flavors to meld.

Step 6: Serve in chilled bowls, garnished with fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, or diced veggies for texture.

Tips & Twists to Try on Your Gazpacho

• Swap red tomatoes for green heirloom varieties and add green bell peppers for a zesty, tangy green gazpacho.
• Blend in a ripe peach or watermelon for a subtle sweet note that balances the acidity of tomatoes.
• Add a jalapeño or a pinch from our Spicy Sea Salts Collection for a bold kick.
• Pulse-blend instead of puréeing for a chunkier texture that feels hearty yet refreshing.
• Perfect for summer parties- just pour gazpacho into shot glasses and garnish with microgreens.
• Top with grilled shrimp or crumbled feta for a filling yet light meal.

Health Benefits or Comparison of Gazpacho with Similar Recipes

Gazpacho shares similarities with tomato bisque but is far lighter and nutrient-packed. Unlike bisque, which is cream-based and served hot, gazpacho keeps all the vitamins and antioxidants of raw vegetables intact. Lycopene from tomatoes, hydrating cucumbers, and vitamin C from peppers make this a powerhouse for summer hydration and immune health. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free unless bread is added as a thickener.

Make Your Own Gazpacho Today

Nothing says summer like a bowl of icy-cold gazpacho. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and looks as beautiful as it tastes. If you’ve never tried making it at home, now’s the perfect time to embrace this Spanish classic and surprise your taste buds with vibrant, garden-fresh flavors.

Other Kitchen Tools You Need for This Recipe

To make your gazpacho experience even smoother, try:

• • Manual Juice Press- Ideal for squeezing fresh lemon into your soup for brightness.
  • Stainless Steel Measuring Cups & Spoons- For precise seasoning.
  • Ice Cube Tray Set- Perfect for making tomato or cucumber ice cubes to keep your soup cold without dilution.

Shop these tools at Zulay Kitchen to elevate your cooking game.

Take Your Recipe to the Next Level

For an elevated flavor profile, try incorporating:

• • Italian and French Countryside Spice Blend Collection- Adds subtle herbaceous depth to your gazpacho.
  • Gourmet Finishing Sea Salts Collection- Sprinkle just before serving for a refined crunch and enhanced flavor.
  • Picnic Basket Collection- A versatile seasoning set that lets you play with flavor combinations all summer.

You can find these premium ingredients in our shop, perfect for turning a simple chilled tomato soup into a gourmet creation.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe

Can I make gazpacho ahead of time?

Absolutely. Gazpacho actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours, as the flavors meld beautifully. You can make it up to two days ahead, but store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before serving, give it a good stir or quick blend to refresh the texture. This make-ahead quality makes it ideal for summer gatherings or meal prep.

Do I need to peel the tomatoes?

It depends on your texture preference. For ultra-smooth gazpacho, blanch tomatoes briefly, then peel before blending. However, if you have a high-powered blender, you can skip peeling as it will create a silky finish while retaining extra fiber and nutrients from the skins.

Can I freeze gazpacho?

Freezing is possible, but the texture will change upon thawing due to the high water content of vegetables. If you choose to freeze, blend again after thawing to restore consistency. For best results, consume fresh within a few days.

Is gazpacho gluten-free?

Traditional gazpacho sometimes includes bread for thickness, but our recipe is naturally gluten-free. If you want to add bread for texture, choose a gluten-free option to accommodate dietary needs without compromising flavor.

What can I serve with gazpacho?

Gazpacho pairs beautifully with crusty bread, grilled seafood, or a fresh summer salad. For a Spanish touch, serve with tapas like olives, manchego cheese, or roasted almonds. It also works as a starter before grilled meats or paella.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Fresh, ripe tomatoes are ideal for peak flavor, but high-quality canned tomatoes can work in a pinch, especially San Marzano or fire-roasted varieties. Just make sure to taste and adjust seasoning, as canned tomatoes can be more acidic or salty.

How do I make gazpacho thicker?

For a creamier consistency, blend in a slice of bread (soaked in water and squeezed dry) or a handful of blanched almonds. Both methods are traditional in different Spanish regions and add richness without overpowering the fresh flavors.