Mediterranean Chilled Gazpacho with Crispy Croutons and Fresh Basil

Mediterranean Gazpacho
Category: First Courses
Servings: 4

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the crispy croutons for the gazpacho. Take the bread and cut it into small cubes. Spread the cubes out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, season with a pinch of salt, and sprinkle oregano over the top. Toast the bread in a convection oven at 220°C (430°F) for about 4 minutes or until the bread is golden and crispy.

2. While the bread is toasting, wash the celery thoroughly. Trim off the base and slice it into small pieces. Next, wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half.

3. Place the halved cherry tomatoes in a food processor or blender, and add the drained marinated peppers.

4. Season the mixture with extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of salt, and the red wine vinegar. Blend the ingredients until smooth, then pass the mixture through a fine sieve to remove the seeds from the tomatoes. This will give you a dense, smooth purée.

5. Now, slice the spring onions thinly.

6. To serve, pour the gazpacho into a large serving bowl or individual bowls. Garnish with the thinly sliced spring onions, the freshly toasted bread croutons, and a few fresh basil leaves for fragrance and color.

7. Serve immediately, enjoying this refreshing, flavorful Mediterranean Gazpacho as a perfect start to any meal.

Enjoy this bright, vibrant Mediterranean-inspired gazpacho—packed with flavor and perfect for a warm day!