SIMPLE GAZPACHO, WITHOUT BREAD

SIMPLE GAZPACHO, WITHOUT BREAD image

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 13

2 slices red or white onion
2 pounds ripe tomatoes
2 to 3 garlic cloves, to taste, halved, green germ removed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 to 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar or wine vinegar (to taste)
1/2 to 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (to taste)
1/2 to 1 cup ice water, depending on how thick you want your soup to be
Salt and freshly ground pepper
1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber (more to taste)
1/2 cup finely chopped tomato (more to taste)
1/2 cup finely chopped green or yellow pepper
1/2 cup finely chopped celery
Slivered fresh basil or chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Steps:

1. Put the onion slices in a bowl, cover with cold water and add a few drops of vinegar. Let sit for 5 minutes while you prepare the remaining ingredients. Drain and rinse with cold water. Cut in half or into smaller pieces. 2. Combine the tomatoes, garlic, onion, olive oil, vinegar, paprika, and salt in a blender and blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings. Pour into a bowl or pitcher, thin out as desired with water, cover and chill for several hours. 3. Meanwhile, prepare the remaining ingredients and toss together in a large bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper. 4. Spoon the chopped vegetables into soup bowls and pour or ladle in the gazpacho. Garnish with basil chiffonade or chopped fresh parsley, and serve.