Spring Green Gazpacho with Croutons

Name: Spring Green Gazpacho with Croutons
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cucumber, peeled and chopped; 1 cup green bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup green onion, chopped; 2 cups fresh spinach leaves; 1 cup fresh herbs (basil, mint, parsley); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup vegetable broth; 2 cups bread, cubed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Highlighted under: Seasonal Comfort Creations

I love making Spring Green Gazpacho with Croutons as the weather warms up. The vibrant green hue of this chilled soup instantly brightens my day, and the refreshing combination of herbs and vegetables makes it a perfect starter or light lunch. The croutons add a delightful crunch, making each spoonful a textural delight. I always look forward to serving this dish at gatherings, as it showcases seasonal ingredients and bursts with flavor. Trust me, once you taste this gazpacho, it will become a go-to recipe in your warm-weather repertoire.

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-02-04T16:58:27.852Z

Making Spring Green Gazpacho has become a cherished tradition for me each spring. I love experimenting with different herbs and greens from my garden, which not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish feel unique every time I prepare it. I typically use fresh basil, mint, and parsley, which infuse the gazpacho with a refreshing taste that perfectly embodies the season.

One tip that I’ve found essential is to allow the gazpacho to chill for at least two hours before serving. This waiting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The contrast of cold soup with crispy croutons is simply irresistible, making it a star dish at any meal.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Refreshing and light with vibrant flavors
Perfectly balances creamy and crunchy textures
A great way to use seasonal greens and herbs

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of the Spring Green Gazpacho lies in the freshness and quality of the ingredients. Cucumbers contribute a refreshing crunch that balances perfectly with the sweetness of green bell peppers. When choosing your vegetables, opt for organic varieties when possible; they often have more vibrant flavors. Fresh herbs, such as basil, mint, and parsley, pack the soup with an aromatic punch, elevating it from simple to spectacular. Each herb adds its unique profile, so feel free to experiment with your favorites.

While this recipe uses classic gazpacho ingredients, feel free to make substitutions based on your preferences or what's available. Zucchini can replace cucumbers for a slightly different texture, while arugula can add a peppery twist to the gazpacho. Additionally, for a creamier consistency, consider including a ripe avocado. Just blend it along with the other ingredients for added richness without altering the fresh flavor.

Perfecting the Texture

Balancing the creamy and crunchy textures is key to a delightful gazpacho. After blending, you want the soup to have a smooth, glossy finish. If it's too thick, add more vegetable broth a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. For serving, ensure the gazpacho is chilled thoroughly, ideally between 38°F to 42°F (3°C to 6°C), as this enhances the refreshing qualities. You can also strain it through a fine-mesh sieve if you prefer an ultra-smooth texture, but I love the rustic feel of leaving it slightly chunky.

The homemade croutons are an essential textural contrast. When making them, watch closely as they bake, because the timing can vary based on the thickness of your bread. Aim for a golden-brown color—this indicates they're crisp without being burnt. If you want to add a bit of variation, consider seasoning the croutons with smoked paprika or fresh herbs to complement the flavors in the gazpacho.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious springtime soup:

Gazpacho Ingredients

2 cups cucumber, peeled and chopped
1 cup green bell pepper, chopped
1 cup green onion, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach leaves
1 cup fresh herbs (basil, mint, parsley)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup vegetable broth

Crouton Ingredients

2 cups bread, cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Make sure to choose the freshest ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Let's get started with preparing this refreshing gazpacho!

Prepare the Gazpacho

In a blender, combine the chopped cucumber, green bell pepper, green onion, spinach, and fresh herbs. Add olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and vegetable broth. Blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Chill the Gazpacho

Transfer the blended mixture to a bowl or container, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to develop.

Make the Croutons

While the gazpacho is chilling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss the bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and garlic powder. Spread onto a baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy.

Serve

Once chilled, ladle the gazpacho into bowls and top with croutons. Enjoy immediately!

Garnish with extra herbs if desired for a beautiful presentation.

Pro Tips

Experiment with different greens and herbs based on what you have on hand for a unique twist each time!

Preparation and Storage Tips

This gazpacho is not only refreshing on the day it's made but also improves in flavor as it sits. After chilling for the recommended two hours, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If preparing in advance for a gathering, consider making it a day ahead. Just remember to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, as flavors can mellow during storage.

For the croutons, you can prepare a larger batch and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This way, you can enjoy them with other soups or salads throughout the week. If they lose their crunch, simply reheat them in a toaster oven for a minute or two to revitalize their texture before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Spring Green Gazpacho can be a stunning visual centerpiece on your table. Consider serving it in chilled bowls or even scooping it into hollowed-out cucumbers for a unique presentation. Top with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for added flair. Pair it with a light, crusty bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal, making it not just a starter but a delightful lunch option too.

Feel free to get creative with garnishes! Crumbled feta cheese or diced ripe avocado can add creaminess, while a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of lemon zest can provide a delightful zesty kick. Experiment with different toppings to personalize the dish to your taste, keeping in mind that they should complement the vibrant flavors of the gazpacho rather than overpower them.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this gazpacho in advance?

Yes, this gazpacho can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for vegetable broth?

You can use chicken broth or even just water, though broth will give it more flavor.

→ How can I make this gazpacho spicier?

Add a jalapeño pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the blender for some heat!

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.