I first got this recipe from a friend, but I’ve made some additions, subtractions and other changes since then. It’s super easy and perfect for hot summer days when you just don’t feel like cooking. The addition of black beans (canned or homemade) makes it more filling and more capable of standing on its own for a meal.

Gazpacho

5 large tomatoes, chopped (some people prefer to dump the seeds )

2 cucumbers, peeled

1 large onion (preferably red, but I have used yellow)

chopped garlic to taste

1 bunch cilantro

juice of 2 limes (I’ve used about an 1/8 of a cup lemon juice in a pinch— I think you could also substitute balsamic vinegar, just need some acid)

sea salt to taste

1 large can of vegetable juice (I like to use the spicy kind to add a little kick)

2 cups of black beans (1 can or homemade)

Put the veggies (minus the black beans) in the food processor and blend until it’s semi-smooth. Pour the puree into a large bowl and add the veggie juice and black beans and stir well. That’s it. Enjoy with some crusty bread or as a side for quiche or whatever suits your fancy.