As the temperature rises and the sun becomes more intense, few things are more appealing than a cool, refreshing soup. And when it comes to chilled soups, gazpacho is one of the most classic and versatile options around.

While most people are familiar with the tomato-based gazpacho, this chilled red pepper version with a hint of lime is a unique and tasty twist that’s perfect for a summer day.

What is Gazpacho?

Gazpacho is a cold, raw soup that originated in the Andalusia region of southern Spain. Traditionally, it was made with a base of stale bread, olive oil, vinegar, and water, to which various vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers were added.

Today, there are countless variations on the classic recipe, but what they all have in common is their refreshing and cooling properties, making them a popular choice in hot climates.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:.

4 large red bell peppers, roasted
1 small red onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup vegetable broth
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp lime juice
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Here’s how to make chilled red pepper gazpacho:.

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place the red bell peppers on it. Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the skins are blistered and blackened.
Remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the peppers cool for 10-15 minutes. This will help loosen the skin and make it easier to remove.
Once the peppers are cool enough to handle, peel off the skin and discard it. Remove the stems and seeds as well.
In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted red peppers, chopped red onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, olive oil, lime juice, red wine vinegar, smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
Chill the gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until it’s cold and refreshing.
When ready to serve, pour the gazpacho into bowls or glasses. Garnish with a sprig of cilantro, a slice of lime, and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

Variations and Tips

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to your tastes. Here are a few ideas:.

Use yellow or orange bell peppers instead of red for a slightly different flavor and color.
Add a chopped cucumber or some diced tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
For a creamier gazpacho, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream before serving.
If you like a little spice, add some chopped jalapeño or serrano peppers to the mix.

When it comes to serving gazpacho, there are plenty of options as well. You can serve it in bowls with a spoon, or in glasses like a cocktail. You could even try using shot glasses for a fun and festive appetizer.

And of course, don’t forget to garnish your soup with fresh herbs, lime wedges, or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of flavor.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a refreshing and healthy summer treat, chilled red pepper gazpacho with lime is a fantastic option. With its bold flavor, vibrant color, and soothing texture, it’s sure to please your taste buds and your body.

So next time you’re feeling hot and bothered, whip up a batch of this delicious soup and enjoy!.