Easy and Refreshing Smoked Gazpacho

This dish is effortless yet gourmet, requiring only a handful of fresh ingredients and a quick blend to achieve its signature smooth texture. The key to its unique flavor lies in lightly smoking the vegetables before blending, either by grilling them over a wood fire or using a smoking device. The result is a gazpacho that’s deeply flavorful yet incredibly refreshing, making it a standout dish for summer meals, backyard gatherings, or elegant appetizers.

Why Smoked Gazpacho Is So Easy to Make

Unlike traditional soups that require simmering, gazpacho is entirely no-cook, meaning you can prepare it in minutes. The smoking step is optional but adds a layer of complexity without extra effort—simply grill the vegetables briefly or use a smoking gun for a quick infusion. Once blended, the soup is ready to chill and serve, making it one of the easiest gourmet dishes to prepare.

A Perfect Summer Meal

With its cool, refreshing texture and bold flavors, smoked gazpacho is ideal for hot days when you want something light yet satisfying. The chilled soup hydrates and nourishes while delivering a burst of smoky, tangy goodness, making it a go-to dish for summer dining.

Great for Family Gatherings

Smoked gazpacho is perfect for entertaining, as it can be made ahead and served chilled, allowing hosts to focus on other dishes. It’s also customizable, meaning guests can add their favorite toppings like avocado, croutons, or fresh herbs for a personalized touch.

Other Versions of Gazpacho-Based Dishes

Gazpacho can be transformed into various dishes, including:

  • Smoked Gazpacho Shooters – Served in small glasses for an elegant appetizer.

  • Gazpacho Salad – A chunky version with diced vegetables and a light vinaigrette.

  • Watermelon Gazpacho – A sweeter, fruit-forward twist.

  • Gazpacho Pasta Sauce – Used as a chilled topping for cold pasta dishes.

Alternatives to Serving Gazpacho in a Bowl

If you want to switch up the presentation, try serving gazpacho with:

  • Grilled bread – Perfect for dipping.

  • Chilled seafood – Poured over shrimp or crab for a refreshing seafood dish.

  • Rice cakes – A crunchy, gluten-free alternative.

  • Lettuce cups – A fresh, crisp way to enjoy gazpacho as a light appetizer.

Easy and Refreshing Smoked Gazpacho

Recipe

 

Ingredients:

  • 4 ripe tomatoes, halved

  • 1 medium cucumber, peeled and diced

  • ½ red bell pepper, seeded and chopped

  • ½ green bell pepper, seeded and chopped

  • ½ small red onion, chopped

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • ½ cup tomato juice

  • ½ cup cold water

  • Fresh basil or chives for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Smoke the vegetables – Lightly grill the tomatoes, bell peppers, and onion over a wood fire or use a smoking gun to infuse them with a smoky flavor.

  2. Blend the ingredients – In a blender, combine smoked vegetables, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.

  3. Adjust consistency – Add tomato juice and cold water, blending again until desired texture is reached.

  4. Chill and serve – Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or chives.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~140

  • Protein: ~3g

  • Carbohydrates: ~15g

  • Fat: ~9g

  • Fiber: ~4g

  • Sugar: ~7g