Cool Cucumber Gazpacho

Name: Cool Cucumber Gazpacho
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups cucumber, peeled and diced; 1 cup ripe tomatoes, chopped; 1/2 red onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 3 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking

I love whipping up this Cool Cucumber Gazpacho during the hot summer months. It’s refreshing, packed with flavor, and incredibly easy to make. The crispness of the cucumbers paired with fresh herbs creates a delightful taste that invigorates my palate. This chilled soup doesn't just quench thirst; it’s a feast for the senses. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those garden cucumbers, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Whether served as an appetizer or a light meal, this gazpacho is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-12T09:42:19.012Z

As I experimented with recipes, I stumbled upon the idea of a chilled cucumber soup, and I was instantly intrigued. The first time I made this gazpacho, it was a hit at a summer gathering. The vibrant colors and fresh aromas filled my kitchen, making it impossible not to taste-test before serving.

What I love about this recipe is its adaptability; you can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences. I found that adding a splash of lime juice brightens everything up beautifully. Remember, the longer it chills, the better the flavors meld!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Incredibly refreshing with a burst of summer flavors
Light yet satisfying, perfect for a warm day
Easily customizable to suit your taste preferences

      

Tips for Perfecting Your Gazpacho

To achieve the ideal texture for your Cool Cucumber Gazpacho, make sure to blend thoroughly but avoid over-blending. Aim for a smooth consistency while keeping a touch of texture from the vegetables. Mixing until no large chunks remain will create a silky soup, but if you prefer a bit of crunch, pulse the ingredients just until combined. I personally enjoy a slightly chunkier gazpacho to enhance the fresh vegetable experience.

Allowing the gazpacho to chill for at least one hour in the refrigerator is crucial to develop its flavors. As it cools, the fresh herbs and vegetables release their juices and meld together, enhancing the overall taste profile. You can prepare it several hours ahead of time, or even a day in advance, making it convenient for gatherings where you want to serve a flavorful chilled dish without stressing on the day of.

Ingredient Insights

Cucumbers are the star of this gazpacho, providing hydration and a refreshing flavor that's essential for summer. Selecting the right cucumbers is important; look for firm ones with smooth, unblemished skin. While European cucumbers have fewer seeds and a milder taste, garden cucumbers work just as well. If you find the skin too bitter, peeling them, as the recipe suggests, can mitigate that bitterness.

The freshness of your tomatoes significantly impacts the gazpacho's overall taste. Ripe tomatoes add sweetness and richness, while unripe ones may lend acidity. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, you can substitute high-quality canned tomatoes; they often provide a more concentrated flavor. For a different twist, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika or a splash of citrus juice for a zestier version.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for the best results:

Ingredients

4 cups cucumber, peeled and diced
1 cup ripe tomatoes, chopped
1/2 red onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
3 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use the freshest ingredients available for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your gazpacho:

Blend Ingredients

In a blender, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, garlic, and parsley. Pour in the vegetable broth and blend until smooth.

Adjust Seasoning

Stir in the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust flavors as needed.

Chill

Transfer the gazpacho to a bowl or container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve

Ladle the chilled gazpacho into bowls and garnish with additional herbs or diced vegetables if desired.

Enjoy this refreshing soup as is, or pair it with crusty bread for a light meal.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a touch of cumin or a splash of hot sauce if you like some heat.

Serving Suggestions

This Cool Cucumber Gazpacho can be served as an elegant first course or as a light meal paired with crusty bread. For added flair, serve it in chilled bowls, and consider garnishing with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast. Fresh avocado, diced finely, not only enhances the appearance but also adds a wonderful creaminess that complements the soup's flavors beautifully.

You can also get creative with your garnish by using microgreens, sunflower seeds, or even croutons for added crunch. These toppings can transform the dish into a more substantial meal or an appealing appetizer that catches the eye. Additionally, consider serving the gazpacho in shot glasses at parties for a fun, bite-sized experience.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Storing your gazpacho is simple. If you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator. The soup will stay fresh for up to three days. However, keep in mind that the longer it sits, the more the flavors can blend and potentially intensify, which may alter its original texture. Always give it a quick stir before serving to reincorporate any settled ingredients.

If you choose to make your gazpacho in advance for a gathering, consider preparing the base ingredients and blending them. Hold off on adding the olive oil and vinegar until just before serving to maintain a bright flavor. You can even double the batch and freeze some for future hot days, although note that the texture may change slightly after thawing. Just blend again before enjoying, and you’ll have a refreshing treat ready to go.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this gazpacho ahead of time?

Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to develop even more.

→ What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

→ Can I substitute any ingredients?

Yes, you can substitute herbs or use different vegetables based on what you have on hand.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Cool Cucumber Gazpacho is entirely vegan, making it suitable for various diets.