If you are looking for a refreshing appetizer this summer that is cool and refreshing, look no further than cold soups.

This refreshing Watermelon Gazpacho represents a harmonious blend of vibrant flavors and cooling sensations, perfect for indulging in during the warmer months. The sweet essence of ripe watermelon intertwines gracefully with the crispness of cucumber, the subtle heat of red bell pepper, and the piquancy of red onion and garlic. With a splash of zesty lime juice and the herbal brightness of fresh mint, each spoonful tantalizes the palate with its invigorating and revitalizing essence. This gazpacho not only celebrates the essence of summer produce but also offers a delightful twist on the traditional gazpacho, infusing it with a touch of innovation and creativity. The optional garnishes of chopped mint, diced cucumber, and crumbled feta cheese add layers of texture and depth, elevating the dish to a culinary masterpiece that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Served chilled, this Minty Melon Gazpacho is not just a dish—it’s a celebration of seasonal abundance and culinary ingenuity, inviting all who taste it to savor the joys of summer in every spoonful.

Minty Melon Mist Marvel (serves 4-6) courtesy courtesy Dr. Malini Saba

Ingredients

• 4 cups diced seedless watermelon
• 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

• Blend watermelon, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and garlic until smooth.
• Add lime juice, olive oil, and mint. Pulse to combine.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Transfer the gazpacho to a large bowl.
• Chill for at least 1 hour.
• Serve cold, garnished with mint and diced cucumber.

Here are some recipes for you to try:

• Himalayan Cold Chaa Soup with Crispy Bhutta Stick courtesy Hitesh Bhargava, Sr. Sous Chef, WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa, Solan
• Lavender Citrus Chilled Delight courtesy Dr. Malini Saba, a passionate culinarian and author of the cookbook ‘ The Abbreviated Cook’
• Cantaloupe Melon Cold Soup courtesy Sumit Kumar, Corporate Chef, Leisure Hotels Group
• Refreshing Corn Cream Chilled Soup courtesy Akshraj Jodha, Executive Chef, ITC Grand Bharat
• Watermelon Gazpacho courtesy Chef Deepak Gore, In-house Culinary Chef, Tata Sampann

Read the full story that first appeared in Deccan Chronicle dated April 1, 2024 here: