Recipe for Tomato and Watermelon Gazpacho with Basil
A refreshing dish that combines the acidity of tomato with the sweetness of watermelon, complemented by the fragrance of basil. This cold soup is perfect for hot summer days, providing hydration and a very natural flavor based on fruits and vegetables.
Preparation time
Tomato and watermelon gazpacho is quick to prepare, ideal for a simple and healthy meal.
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 0 minutes
- Total: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the gazpacho
- 1 kg of varied tomatoes (preferably vine or plum tomatoes)
- 1/2 small watermelon or 1/4 large watermelon
- 1/2 glass of olive oil
- Salt to taste (approximately half a tablespoon)
- 2 fresh basil leaves
- 1 glass of water to adjust texture
If you cannot find plum or vine tomatoes in your area, you can use common ripe tomatoes such as saladette or cherry tomatoes, which provide a good balance between acidity and sweetness for this recipe.
Utensils we will use
- Blender or food processor
- Knife and cutting board
- Strainer or chinois for filtering
- Bowl or mixing container
- Spoons for measuring and mixing
Preparation
1. Prepare the ingredients
- Wash the tomatoes and watermelon: Wash the tomatoes and watermelon thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or pesticide residue.
- Cut into pieces: Cut the tomatoes into quarters or medium pieces, depending on their size. Peel and cut the watermelon into medium cubes, removing visible seeds to facilitate blending.
2. Blend the ingredients
- Add to the blender cup: Place the tomatoes, watermelon cubes, olive oil, salt, basil leaves, and a glass of water to facilitate mixing.
- Process until a uniform mixture is obtained: Blend at medium or high speed until all ingredients are well integrated and the texture is homogeneous.
3. Strain and adjust
- Strain the gazpacho: Pour the mixture through a fine sieve or chinois to remove seeds and coarser pulp, thus obtaining a smooth and pleasant texture on the palate.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the gazpacho and correct salt if necessary. If you prefer a lighter texture, you can add a little more water.
To finish and serve
Once strained and seasoned to your liking, serve the gazpacho well chilled. It can be decorated with some additional basil leaves or small watermelon cubes to provide a visual and refreshing contrast. This cold soup is ideal to accompany with toasted bread or as a light starter in a summer meal.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Proteins: 2 g
- Fats: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
These values are approximate per serving and may vary depending on portion size and the variety of ingredients used.
5 keys for perfect gazpacho
To achieve a balanced and flavorful tomato and watermelon gazpacho, there are details in its preparation that make a difference.
- Use well-ripened tomatoes: The flavor base of gazpacho largely depends on the tomato. Look for them to be firm, but ripe so that their flavor is intense and sweet.
- Remove watermelon seeds: Although not mandatory, removing seeds will make it easier to obtain a silkier texture when blending the gazpacho.
- Incorporate fresh basil: Basil provides a unique aroma that balances the sweetness of the watermelon and the acidity of the tomato. Do not omit it or substitute it with overly strong herbs.
- Take care of the olive oil: An extra virgin oil adds flavor and smoothness. Add it in moderate quantity so as not to overload the gazpacho.
- Chill well before serving: This type of cold soup is best enjoyed well chilled because it intensifies the refreshing sensation and maintains the fresh flavor of the fruit and vegetable.
When is it ideal to enjoy it?
The tomato and watermelon gazpacho with basil is ideal for hot summer days, as it is a refreshing recipe that hydrates and provides nutrients with few calories. Perfect as a light starter before a full meal or to accompany an outdoor picnic afternoon. Its fresh flavor makes it a favorite for family gatherings or informal celebrations where something simple but different is sought.
Comparative table of gazpachos and similar cold soups
| Recipe | Key ingredients | Difference/advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Tomato and watermelon gazpacho with basil | Tomato, watermelon, basil | Balanced sweet and sour flavor, with fresh basil aroma |
| Tropical gazpacho | Tomato, mango, pineapple | Includes tropical fruits for an exotic and sweet flavor |
| Cold cucumber and yogurt soup with mint | Cucumber, yogurt, mint | Creamy texture from the yogurt, fresh and smooth flavor |
| Cold tomato and basil soup | Tomato, basil, olive oil | More traditional, without sweet fruit to soften the acidity |
| Pineapple and cucumber gazpacho | Pineapple, cucumber, garlic | Sweeter flavor and use of garlic for a spicy touch |
| Watermelon and feta cheese salad | Watermelon, feta cheese, mint | Solid version, sweet and savory combination with firm texture |
| Cucumber and yogurt soup | Cucumber, yogurt, garlic | Creamy texture and mild flavor without fruit |
Share your experience
Cooking is for experimenting and sharing. Leave your comment and tell us how this tomato and watermelon gazpacho with basil turned out for you! If you decided to add any extra ingredients or changed any steps, it will be useful for more people who are encouraged to prepare this refreshing cold soup.
Culinary glossary
- Tomato: Red tomato, a fundamental base in this gazpacho, provides acidity and fresh flavor.
- Basil: Aromatic herb with a sweet and refreshing flavor, which complements fruit and vegetable ingredients well.
- Cold soup: Liquid dish served cold, very common in summer, which helps to refresh and nourish.
- Strain with a chinois: Pass the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds or large pieces and obtain a smooth texture.
- Mixer: Kitchen appliance that grinds ingredients to mix them homogeneously.
