Gazpacho

     Generally I prefer hot soup, but occasionally I make an exception. This is one of those those times. Gazpacho is a vegetable filled spicy puree that has lovey acidity without making you wish you had heartburn medication handy. The first time I had it was at a reception for a friend's music recital and they served it in cups. I immediately asked for the recipe.
     I adore gazpacho, but if you have never had it before you may not understand it's being called a soup... so don't think of it as a soup. It is simply a nice healthy summer food, that you can either eat with a spoon, or even sip from a glass (I have even been considering a savory Popsicle in the current heat.)
     Before I list the ingredients for the mix I just made I will say this - there are a few essential ingredients but the rest of the list (and, in fact, the amounts) are all very flexible.

Equipment you will need:
     Mixing bowl
     Food processor/blender
     Tasting spoon (not to be used at an "eat it all while standing at the counter" spoon)

I mention the tasting spoon because you really do want to keep tasting while making this dish. Every time I make gazpacho it's a bit different, but that difference depends on how I feel at the time, and how cheap certain veggies are. (Side note: This is a great dish if you want something inexpensive.)

Core ingredients:
     Tomatoes chopped, 3-4 large
     Red Onion diced, 1
     Cucumber chopped, 1
     Lemon juice and/or Lime juice (both is better) around 2 Tbsp each
     Garlic diced 5-6 bulbs
     Salt & Pepper

Optional:
     Red bell pepper diced, 1
     Green bell pepper diced, 1
     Cilantro (leaves only)
     Hot sauce, maybe a Tbsp
     Garlic or onion powder

     Chop all vegetables and put them in the food processor or blender. Blend until desired consistency is reached. I prefer chunky, but some people like puree. Here's how I like mine:

      Now is when you'll want to add lime/lemon juice, salt, pepper, and anything other than the veggies. Taste as you add to make sure everything is working nicely with the vegetables from your area. You want spicy, but you want to leave to eat another bowl too. Do not underestimate the importance of the lemon and lime juice.
     If you feel fancy and avocados are miraculously cheap where you are, slice them to garnish your dish. If you want some protein, try sauteing some shrimp, or even just hang them on the edge of the glass cold like shrimp cocktails.
     The longer this sits, the better the flavors get. At least try to wait a few hours before eating after you mix it all.

Enjoy your cool summer treat!