Refreshing Vegan Gazpacho Recipe – Classic and Watermelon Variations

Nothing says summer quite like a cool, refreshing bowl of gazpacho. This vegan soup is perfect for hot days when you crave something light yet flavorful. Packed with fresh garden vegetables and herbs, this gazpacho recipe is not only delicious but also loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. You can make it in the classic style or add watermelon for a unique, sweet twist.

Why Choose Gazpacho?

Gazpacho is a wonderful way to enjoy raw vegetables in a chilled soup that’s both nutritious and hydrating. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and can be made in minutes. With ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, and red bell pepper, this soup is high in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making it an ideal meal for warm days.

Ingredients

For the classic gazpacho:

• 4 medium tomatoes, diced

• 1 cup tomato juice or V8 juice

• 1 cup cucumber, seeded and diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1/2 cup red onion, diced

• 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced

• 1 can small white beans, rinsed well

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 2 limes: 1 juiced, 1 cut into wedges

• 2 tsp balsamic vinegar

• 2 tsp vegan Worcestershire sauce

• 1/2 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp kosher salt (optional)

• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

• 1/4 tsp ground black seed/black cumin (optional)

• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro

• 2 tbsp fresh basil

• 1 avocado, cubed

For Watermelon Gazpacho:

• 4 cups watermelon, cubed (leave out the V8 juice and beans)

• Switch balsamic vinegar to red wine vinegar

Directions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except for half of the cilantro and basil, the avocado, and the lime wedges.

2. Blend for Texture: To create a thicker consistency, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, or blend 2 cups of it in a regular blender and return to the bowl.

3. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the gazpacho into bowls and garnish with the remaining fresh cilantro or basil, cubed avocado, and a lime wedge.

Customizing Your Gazpacho

This gazpacho recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to adjust it to your taste:

• Add more veggies: Try adding diced zucchini, carrots, or green bell pepper.

• Spice it up: For a bit more heat, add a splash of hot sauce or extra jalapeño.

• Make it fruitier: Watermelon is a great addition, but you could also add mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.

Enjoy this vegan gazpacho as a refreshing appetizer, light meal, or side dish on a hot summer day. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors makes this chilled soup a standout choice for any plant-based menu.