It’s summertime, and are you ready to savor some delicious summer delights? Let’s kick things off with a refreshing Watermelon Gazpacho.
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Watermelon gazpacho recipe without tomatoes
The watermelon gazpacho is the perfect way to beat the heat while enjoying the sweet, juicy flavors of ripe watermelon. This summer cold soup is a delightful twist on the classic gazpacho, balancing the sweetness of watermelon with tangy, savory flavors. It is also easy to make, just like preparing the Watermelon Agua Fresca.
The traditional gazpacho recipe includes tomatoes as a key ingredient. However, for this recipe, I remove tomatoes to highlight the refreshing and sweet qualities of watermelon. This aims to create a lighter and fruitier soup that is perfect for summer. Here’s how to make the Watermelon Gazpacho:
Watermelon Gazpacho recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups watermelon cubed and seeded
- 1 medium cucumber peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper seeded and diced
- 1 small red onion finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño seeded and finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a blender, combine 3 cups of watermelon, half the cucumber, half the red bell pepper, half the red onion, and the jalapeño. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a large bowl. Stir in the remaining 1 cup of watermelon, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion.
- Add the olive oil, lime juice, and cilantro. Mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Nutrition
SIMILAR RECIPES
This type of Gazpacho can be customized in various ways. You can create the original tomato and watermelon gazpacho or:
- Add more fruit: Cantaloupe, strawberries, and/or honeydew melon can be blended in along with the watermelon.
- Add more vegetables: Beets, zucchini, and/or corn can be incorporated.
- Use different herbs: While the recipes call for mint and basil, cilantro can also be used.
- Creamy option adds depth to the soup. You can use:
- Crumbled feta cheese: Adds saltiness and tangy notes
- Diced avocado: Provides richness and smooth texture
- A dollop of Greek yogurt: Introduces tanginess and protein
- Adjust the spice level with:
- Finely diced jalapeño or serrano peppers
- A dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce
- Grated fresh ginger for a warming spice
- Top with garnishes: Croutons, extra chopped mint, a drizzle of olive oil, and/or any leftover chopped gazpacho ingredients can be used as garnishes.
Using and serving suggestions
1. As a Refreshing Appetizer
Watermelon gazpacho functions excellently as an appetizer. To make it more elegant, consider these presentation ideas:
- Serve in chilled shot glasses for an elegant amuse-bouche
- Present in hollowed-out mini watermelons for a whimsical touch
- Offer in small, clear bowls garnished with a sprig of mint and a drizzle of olive oil
2. As a Base for Summer Cocktails
This soup can elevate summer cocktails:
- Gazpacho Margaritas: Blending the soup with tequila and triple sec
- Watermelon Gazpacho Martinis: Mixing with vodka and a splash of elderflower liqueur
- Virgin Gazpacho Spritzers: Combining with sparkling water and a squeeze of lime
3. Light Main Course Ideas
Watermelon cold soup can be transformed into a satisfying main course. Here are some pairing suggestions:
| Gazpacho Serving | Accompaniment | Protein Addition |
| Large chilled bowl | Crusty bread | Grilled shrimp skewer |
| Shallow dish | Herb salad | Crumbled feta cheese |
| Mason jar | Avocado toast | Chilled crab meat |
4. Pairing with Other Summer Dishes
This gazpacho with watermelon complements various summer foods. It might pair wonderfully with:
- Grilled vegetable platters
- Light seafood dishes
- Mediterranean-inspired mezze spreads
- Charcuterie boards featuring cured meats and cheeses
5. Frozen Treats and Popsicles
Gazpacho watermelon can transform into refreshing frozen desserts:
- Pouring into popsicle molds for a savory-sweet frozen treat
- Creating granita by freezing and scraping with a fork periodically
- Blending with Greek yogurt for a tangy frozen soup
6. Incorporating into Other Recipes
Watermelon gazpacho enhances various dishes. I’ve successfully used it as:
- A cold sauce for grilled fish or chicken
- A unique salad dressing when slightly thickened
- A flavorful base for cold noodle dishes
Watermelon gazpacho is a summer staple worth mastering. By experimenting, you can elevate this simple soup into a standout dish that will delight your palate and impress your guests.
Troubleshooting common issues
1. Texture Problems
Texture issues can be resolved through simple techniques. If your gazpacho is:
- Too thick: Add cold water or more cucumber juice
- Too thin: Incorporate more blended watermelon or a small amount of bread
- Too chunky: Blend for a longer duration or strain through a fine-mesh sieve
2. Flavor Imbalances
Flavor balance is crucial in watermelon gazpacho. To correct imbalances:
| Issue | Solution |
| Too sweet | Add more acid lime juice or vinegar |
| Too acidic | Incorporate more watermelon or a pinch of sugar |
| Lacking depth | Increase olive oil or add a dash of smoked paprika |
3. Subpar Watermelons
Subpar watermelons can be salvaged in gazpacho preparation. When faced with a less-than-ideal watermelon, I:
- Increase the amount of lime juice to enhance sweetness
- Add a small amount of honey or agave nectar if needed
- Incorporate more aromatic herbs to boost flavor complexity