Chef John’s White Gazpacho – Chilled Summer Vegetable Soup
If you’re looking for a refreshing, no-cook soup that’s creamy, crisp, and unique, this White Gazpacho from Chef John is the answer. Unlike its tomato-based cousin, this chilled Spanish-style soup uses white bread, almonds, grapes, and cucumbers for a luxurious texture and subtle sweetness — perfect for hot summer days.
🥣 Ingredients (Servings: 4)
- 1 cup seedless green grapes
- 1 cup peeled, chopped cucumber
- 1 small clove garlic
- 1 cup cubed day-old white bread (crusts removed)
- ½ cup blanched almonds
- ¾ cup cold water (more if needed)
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
- Optional garnishes: sliced grapes, diced cucumber, slivered almonds, a drizzle of olive oil
👨🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Soak the Bread:
🍞 Place cubed bread in a bowl and pour water over it. Let it soak for 5–10 minutes until softened. Squeeze out excess moisture before using.
2️⃣ Blend the Base:
🥒 In a blender or food processor, combine grapes, cucumber, garlic, soaked bread, and almonds. Blend until smooth.
3️⃣ Add Vinegar and Olive Oil:
🍾 With the blender running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil and vinegar until emulsified. Season with salt and white pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, add more cold water to reach your desired consistency.
4️⃣ Chill Thoroughly:
❄️ Transfer soup to the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor).
5️⃣ Serve Cold:
🍇 Ladle into bowls and garnish with sliced grapes, diced cucumber, slivered almonds, and a light drizzle of olive oil.
📦 Amazon Must-Haves to help you create the best White Gazpacho
- 🥄 High-Speed Blender – Essential for a smooth, creamy soup texture.
- 🧄 Mini Garlic Grater – Perfect for finely prepping garlic.
- 🍞 Bread Knife – Easily trim crusts from day-old bread.
- 🥣 Glass Storage Bowls – Chill your soup in style and freshness.
- 🥄 Soup Serving Ladle – Serve cleanly and beautifully.
- 🧂 White Pepper Grinder – Adds subtle heat without overpowering the color.
💡 Helpful Tip
Use the sweetest grapes you can find for best results. Want a vegan version? Make sure the bread doesn’t contain milk or eggs!