Navidi's Gazpacho
Serves 4-6
Ingredients:
• 3 cups roughly chopped ripe tomatoes
• 1 cucumber, seeded and minced (save a little of it to use as a garnish)
• 1/2 bell pepper, chopped
• 1/3 cup packed parsley
• 2 medium cloves garlic
• 1 Tbsp fresh dill
• 1/2 cup tomato juice
• 1/2 cup water
• 2-3 Tbsp sherry vinegar
• 2 small slices crusty artisan bread, soaked briefly in water and then squeezed out
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1/3 cup Navidi's Seasonal Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (a robust variety works well here)
Directions: Set the olive oil aside and blend all other ingredients in a blender until smooth. Slowly add the olive oil to the mix in a thin stream while blending. Refrigerate at least 2 hours. Then taste and adjust seasonings as necessary. If you prefer a thinner gazpacho, omit bread and add additional tomato juice. You can also strain the blended mix. Top with a variety of garnishes, such as minced cucumber, radish, avocado, and fresh herbs. Serve with some crostini on the side. Enjoy!