Spring Green Gazpacho with Croutons

Name: Spring Green Gazpacho with Croutons
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, peeled and diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 small red onion, diced; 2 cups fresh parsley leaves; 1 cup fresh mint leaves; 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 tablespoons lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slices of stale bread, cubed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

I love serving a chilled soup when the weather warms up, and this Spring Green Gazpacho captures the essence of fresh greens in every spoonful. Made with cucumbers, herbs, and a splash of citrus, it’s refreshing and light—perfect for warm spring days. The homemade croutons add a delightful crunch and elevate the dish to another level. Whether paired with a slice of good bread or enjoyed on its own, this gazpacho is my go-to for bright and vibrant flavors during the spring season.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T15:45:27.920Z

Creating this Spring Green Gazpacho was an experiment in flavor and texture that paid off splendidly. I began with a base of ripe cucumbers and fresh herbs, blending them to achieve a silky-smooth consistency. The addition of lime juice not only brightened up the gazpacho but also balanced the flavors beautifully.

After perfecting the soup, I turned my attention to the croutons. Simple stale bread, tossed in olive oil and roasted until crisp, turned out to be the perfect contrast to the creamy soup, thanks to their crunchy texture. It’s a combination I look forward to every spring!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing with a variety of fresh spring vegetables
Homemade croutons add that perfect crunch to each bite
An easy way to enjoy a balanced meal packed with nutrients

Tips for the Best Gazpacho

To achieve the optimal texture for your gazpacho, it's essential to blend the ingredients just enough. Aim for a smooth but not completely pureed consistency, allowing tiny bits of vegetable to remain for added texture. If you prefer a finer soup, consider straining it through a sieve to eliminate any larger chunks, but this step is optional.

Freshness is key when it comes to the herbs in this recipe. I recommend using vibrant, bright green parsley and mint, which not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the soup's appealing color. Additionally, feel free to experiment with other herbs like cilantro or basil for a unique twist on the flavor profile.

Making Croutons Like a Pro

For the croutons, using stale bread is ideal since it holds up better when baked. If you only have fresh bread, you can dry it out by slicing and toasting in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through until dry but not browned. The key is ensuring the bread is thoroughly dried out to achieve maximum crunch.

You can easily customize the flavor of your croutons by adding spices or herbs to the olive oil mix. Consider incorporating dried oregano, rosemary, or even a pinch of cayenne to elevate the taste. Keep an eye on the croutons in the oven; they can go from perfectly golden to overdone in just a minute or two.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful spring meal:

For the Gazpacho

2 large cucumbers, peeled and diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 small red onion, diced
2 cups fresh parsley leaves
1 cup fresh mint leaves
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Croutons

4 slices of stale bread, cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt to taste

With these ingredients ready, let’s move to the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your gazpacho:

Prepare the Gazpacho

In a blender, combine cucumbers, green bell pepper, red onion, parsley, mint, olive oil, and lime juice. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, chill in the refrigerator for an hour before serving.

Make the Croutons

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, toss the cubed stale bread with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Pour the gazpacho into bowls, top with croutons, and garnish with extra herbs if desired. Enjoy your refreshing dish!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this vibrant spring dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra pop of flavor, try adding a splash of vinegar or a bit of diced jalapeño for spice. Presenting the gazpacho with a drizzle of good quality olive oil can also enhance the flavor.

Storage Tips

Gazpacho can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. In fact, the flavors may deepen and improve after sitting for a day. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate during storage.

Croutons, on the other hand, are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To revive their crunchiness, simply toss them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the presentation of your Spring Green Gazpacho, consider serving it in chilled bowls. This not only keeps the soup cold but also adds an upscale touch. A drizzle of olive oil over the soup before adding croutons can also elevate the appearance and flavor balance.

For a heartier meal, pair the gazpacho with a light salad or some grilled shrimp. Alternatively, serve it alongside a selection of cheeses and cured meats for a sophisticated tapas-style experience that will impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the gazpacho a day in advance?

Absolutely! The flavors develop even more when it sits, just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can incorporate ripe tomatoes or avocados for added creaminess and flavor.

→ How long will the croutons stay crunchy?

If stored in an airtight container, they will remain crunchy for about 3-5 days, although they are best enjoyed fresh.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can easily make this gluten-free by using gluten-free bread for the croutons.