Watermelon gazpacho
This watermelon gazpacho is a fruity summer twist on traditional gazpacho that leaves out bread, pepper and cucumber to let the fruit take centre stage. Made with ripe tomato, watermelon, a hint of garlic, olive oil and vinegar, it helps with hydration and is very low in calories.
At a glance
- Prep10 min
- Total10 min
- Servings4 servings
- DifficultyEasy
Allergens
- None of the fourteen declarable allergens
Who this recipe is for
A hydrating, sweet chilled soup without bread or gluten. Its volume, freshness and low energy content make it suitable for weight-loss plans.
Ingredients
Quantities for 4 servings. Tick off what you already have.
Step by step
- Remove the rind and seeds from the watermelon and cut it into medium-sized pieces.
- Wash the ripe tomatoes and cut them into quarters.
- Place the watermelon, tomatoes, half a garlic clove (without the inner sprout), extra-virgin olive oil and vinegar in a blender.
- Blend on high for two or three minutes until completely smooth and liquid.
- Pass the gazpacho through a fine sieve if you would like to remove any remaining fibre or skins.
- Refrigerate for at least two hours before serving.
- Taste and adjust the salt and acidity before serving; if the watermelon is very sweet, add a few extra drops of vinegar to balance it.
Adaptations
How to change it depending on the day. Each change keeps the dish, it does not replace it.
If you prefer a more aromatic flavour
Add 4 or 5 fresh basil or mint leaves while blending for an extra refreshing note.
For people who are very sensitive to raw garlic
Leave the garlic out completely and use mild apple cider vinegar to complement the watermelon’s natural sweetness.
If you like a garnish
Serve with small cubes of fresh watermelon and a pinch of crumbled feta on top (contains dairy).
How to store it
In the fridge, covered and in a bottle or jug, it keeps for 2 days. Shake it before serving, because it separates into layers. It is not suitable for freezing. It turns watery when defrosted.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- If it turns out watery, water was added or the watermelon was very juicy. The fruit and tomato already release enough liquid.
- A gazpacho that is sharp and not very sweet has unripe tomatoes. Choose red tomatoes that feel soft and adjust the vinegar at the end.
- Bitterness comes from the green germ inside the garlic. Remove it and taste before adding more.
Variations
- With a little melon in place of some of the watermelon, for a milder gazpacho.
- With a handful of strawberries, for a slightly tarter, pinker soup.
- With lemon juice instead of vinegar, if you prefer it fresher.
Frequently asked questions
Does watermelon gazpacho contain bread?
No. This recipe has no bread, cucumber or pepper. Just watermelon, tomato, a little garlic, oil and vinegar. That is why it contains no gluten.
How long should it chill in the fridge before serving?
At least 2 hours, so it gets cold and the flavours come together. If the watermelon is very sweet, add a few drops of vinegar before taking it to the table.
Which watermelon is best for gazpacho?
A well-ripened, sweet, seedless watermelon. Remove the rind and seeds before blending. If the fruit is weak in flavour, the gazpacho will taste bland.
How long does watermelon gazpacho last?
Up to 2 days in the fridge, in a covered jug. Stir it before serving. If it smells sour or fermented, throw it away.
What it provides
Watermelon and tomatoes are both made up of more than 90% water, making this dish a good choice for hot weather. Both foods are excellent sources of lycopene, an antioxidant carotenoid with protective properties against oxidative stress; its absorption is enhanced by the healthy fats in extra-virgin olive oil.
The dietitian's tip
Do not add water: both watermelon and tomato release plenty of liquid when blended. Adjust the amount of vinegar to the ripeness and sweetness of the watermelon.
It fits into our weight-loss plan. Other fruit-based chilled soups: Andalusian gazpacho and chilled melon and cucumber soup.
What a recipe is not
This recipe fits into a plan; it does not replace one. It cures nothing and it is not calculated for one particular person: the quantities are indicative and will need adjusting to your case.
If you have a medical condition, take medication or follow a prescribed diet, check with your doctor or your dietitian before changing anything.
Where this recipe comes from
The main guide
Weight-loss diet: how to lose fat and keep it off
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