Gaudy Gazpacho

gaudy gazpacho

While this soup is indeed tasty, I got a bit overzealous on the visual decoration of this meal for the photo.  Therefore, I've deemed this gaudy gazpacho.  To make this an original dish, I've added some radish for that mustard-like spice and basil and red pepper flakes for a more complex flavor.  This is a perfect cool down dinner for those hot summer nights.

Serves 4-5
Prep Time: 0.5-1 hr
Cool Time: 0.5 hr to 1 day

Ingredients:

1.5 lb mixed variety heirloom tomatoes, coarsely chopped
1 large cucumber, coarsely chopped, (dice some for garnish)
3 watermelon radishes (or regular radishes if not available), 2 coarsely chopped and 1 finely julienned
1 red pepper, chopped
1/3 medium onion, chopped
2-3 cloves garlic, chopped
1 cup basil, chopped (save some for garnish)salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste

Directions:

• mix all ingredients in blender and pulse until smooth and uniform in texture
• garnish with diced cucumbers, red peppers, radish, basil and red pepper flakes
• cool for at least 0.5 hr

Potential Alternatives:

• try using roasted red peppers
• substitute cilantro for basil
• experiment with different tomato variaties