Watermelon Gazpacho
This vibrant, savory-sweet Watermelon Gazpacho is a perfect dish for summer. It’s refreshing, easy to prepare, and offers a unique twist on traditional gazpacho, making it an ideal choice for picnics, barbecues, or light dinners. With its bright colors and blend of flavors, this chilled soup is sure to impress your guests while keeping you cool.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Refreshing Flavor: The combination of sweet watermelon with savory ingredients creates a delightful contrast that is both refreshing and satisfying.
- Easy Preparation: This recipe takes just 25 minutes to prepare, allowing you to whip up a delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or light main course—this watermelon gazpacho fits any occasion beautifully.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and low in calories, this soup is a nutritious option for anyone looking to eat healthy this summer.
- Vegan-Friendly: Made entirely from plant-based ingredients, this gazpacho is perfect for vegans and those with dietary restrictions.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Watermelon Gazpacho, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Blender
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Large container
Importance of Each Tool
- Blender: A high-quality blender ensures your gazpacho achieves the perfect smooth texture without any chunks.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors in your gazpacho.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting ingredients efficiently.
Ingredients
This vibrant, savory-sweet Watermelon Gazpacho is a celebration of the summer season. Chilled soup? Yes, please!
For the Dressing
- 3 Tbsp sherry vinegar ($0.69)
- 3 Tbsp olive oil ($0.57)
- 1/2 tsp salt ($0.01)
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper ($0.03)
For the Gazpacho Base
- 1/2 watermelon, divided (approx. 9 cups) ($2.34)
- 1 cucumber, seeded and diced, divided ($0.64)
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped, divided ($1.48)
- 3 roma tomatoes, seeded and diced, divided ($0.63)
- 1/4 red onion, diced ($0.30)
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced small ($0.40)
For Garnishing
- 1 Tbsp basil, minced ($0.89)
- 1 Tbsp parsley, minced ($0.12)
How to Make Watermelon Gazpacho
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Whisk together sherry vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
Step 2: Blend the Base
Add 4.5 cups of watermelon along with half a peeled and diced cucumber, half of a seeded bell pepper, 2 roma tomatoes, and red onion to the blender.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Blend until smooth while simultaneously streaming in the dressing mixture until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Mix in Remaining Ingredients
Pour the gazpacho broth into a large container and stir in the remaining 4.5 cups of diced watermelon, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, 1 seeded and diced roma tomato, small-diced jalapeño, and fresh herbs.
Step 5: Serve Chilled
Top with an extra drizzle of olive oil and add salt and pepper to taste if desired! Enjoy your chilled Watermelon Gazpacho cold for maximum refreshment!
How to Serve Watermelon Gazpacho
Watermelon Gazpacho is not just a dish; it’s an experience that delights the senses. Serving this chilled soup can elevate your summer gatherings or casual meals, making them unforgettable.
Refreshing With Garnishes
- Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of minced basil or parsley for a burst of flavor.
- Croutons: Top with homemade or store-bought croutons for a delightful crunch.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado pairs well with the refreshing soup.
Pairing With Proteins
- Grilled Shrimp: Serve alongside grilled shrimp for a hearty and flavorful contrast.
- Crab Meat: Lightly seasoned crab meat can enhance the savory-sweet profile of the gazpacho.
Accompanying Breads
- Crusty Baguette: Freshly sliced baguette adds a rustic touch and is perfect for dipping.
- Garlic Bread: The flavors of garlic bread complement the Watermelon Gazpacho beautifully.
As Part of a Tasting Menu
- Small Plates: Include Watermelon Gazpacho in a selection of small plates for an elegant dining experience.
How to Perfect Watermelon Gazpacho
To create the ultimate Watermelon Gazpacho, follow these helpful tips to enhance its flavor and presentation.
- Bold Ingredients: Use ripe, high-quality watermelon for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Chill Well: Ensure your ingredients are cold before blending; this enhances the serving temperature.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed.
- Texture Matters: For added texture, reserve some diced vegetables to mix in just before serving.
- Presentation Counts: Serve in chilled bowls for an impressive look that keeps it cool longer.
Best Side Dishes for Watermelon Gazpacho
Pairing side dishes with Watermelon Gazpacho can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a classic pairing.
- Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers filled with seasonal vegetables add texture and flavor.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the flavors of gazpacho perfectly; try it grilled or boiled.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber and feta brings additional freshness to the meal.
- Mediterranean Hummus Plate: A platter of hummus, olives, and pita chips offers a tasty contrast in flavors.
- Stuffed Avocados: Avocado halves filled with tuna salad create a creamy side that balances the soup’s lightness.
- Savory Scones: Cheese or herb scones add a comforting touch to your meal.
- Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas serve as a nutritious snack that pairs well with gazpacho.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Watermelon Gazpacho, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:
- Using Overripe Watermelon: Using overly ripe watermelon can lead to a mushy texture. Choose a firm watermelon for the best results.
- Skipping the Chilling Step: Serving this gazpacho warm misses the point of its refreshing nature. Always chill it for at least an hour before serving.
- Not Balancing Flavors: If you don’t balance the sweetness of the watermelon with enough acidity from vinegar, the dish can taste flat. Adjust sherry vinegar for the right zing.
- Forgetting Seasoning: Don’t overlook salt and pepper; they enhance the flavors significantly. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to your liking.
- Blending Too Long: Blending too long can turn your gazpacho into a smoothie. Blend just until smooth but still retain some texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep it chilled to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing Watermelon Gazpacho
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.
- Leave some space in containers as liquid expands when frozen.
Reheating Watermelon Gazpacho
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer gazpacho to an oven-safe dish, and heat until warm.
- Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring gently until hot, but avoid boiling.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about Watermelon Gazpacho, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
Can I customize my Watermelon Gazpacho?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or herbs like mint for different flavors.
Is Watermelon Gazpacho vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based and perfect for vegan diets.
How long does Watermelon Gazpacho last?
It lasts about 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I serve Watermelon Gazpacho warm?
While traditionally served cold, you can enjoy it warm if preferred; however, chilling enhances its refreshing quality.
What can I serve with Watermelon Gazpacho?
This chilled soup pairs well with grilled meats or seafood, light salads, or crusty bread.
Final Thoughts
This vibrant Watermelon Gazpacho is not only visually appealing but also a delicious way to enjoy summer produce. Its versatility allows for countless variations based on your taste preferences. Experiment with different herbs or veggies to make it your own!
Watermelon Gazpacho
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
This Watermelon Gazpacho is a delightful, refreshing chilled soup that’s perfect for hot summer days. Bursting with vibrant flavors, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe watermelon with savory vegetables, creating a harmonious balance that will impress your guests. Easy to prepare in just 25 minutes, this vegan-friendly dish is versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, side dish, or light main course. Garnished with fresh herbs and served cold, this gazpacho not only elevates your meal but also keeps you cool during those warm summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1/2 watermelon (approx. 9 cups)
- 1 cucumber
- 1 red bell pepper
- 3 roma tomatoes
- 1/4 red onion
- 1 jalapeño
- 3 Tbsp sherry vinegar
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- Fresh herbs (basil and parsley)
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing by whisking together sherry vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- In a blender, combine 4.5 cups of watermelon, half a cucumber, half a red bell pepper, two roma tomatoes, and red onion. Blend until smooth.
- Gradually stream in the dressing while blending until fully incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into a large container and stir in the remaining diced watermelon, cucumber, bell pepper, one roma tomato, jalapeño, and fresh herbs.
- Chill for at least one hour before serving for maximum refreshment.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
