Classic Gazpacho

Submitted by Joe Russo
Serves 4

Ingredients

3 pounds ripe tomatoes, cored and roughly chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded and roughly chopped, more for garnish
1 mild green chile pepper or jalapeño, seeded and roughly chopped
1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded and roughly chopped
1 small yellow onion, roughly chopped
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
Salt to taste

Method

Put tomatoes, garlic, cucumbers, chiles, red bell peppers, and onions into a large bowl and toss to combine. Working in batches, puree vegetables in a blender or food processor until smooth, adding a little water if mixture seems too thick. Strain pureed vegetables through a medium sieve to remove peels and seeds, discarding any solids. Transfer smooth puree to a large bowl and whisk in juice and salt. Cover and chill well before serving. Garnish with chopped cucumber if desired.