Gazpacho

Ingredients

2 garlic
2 slices bread
1 slice cucumber
1/2 green bell pepper
120 ml water
60 ml olive oil
600 gr tomatoes
30 gr onions
34 gr pimientos
30 ml wine vinegar
700 ml vegetable stock
60 gr herbs see note

Instructions

* Use low-sodium chicken stock or broth if vegetable stock is not available. ** For herbs, use your choice of chives, parsley, basil, or tarragon. All ingredients should be as fresh as possible.

1. Crush garlic in bowl and add bread which has been torn into small pieces. This helps give the soup consistency. Add sliced cucumber, diced green pepper, water and olive oil. Allow this mixture to marinate for several hours.

2. Add cut-up tomatoes, onions, pimiento and salt to chilled mixture. Blend in blender or food processor until the texture you prefer. Chill thoroughly.

3. Just before serving, mix in vinegar, cold stock and herbs. For added color, flavor and texture, garnish with garlic croutons, watercress or lime slices.