Deliciously Versatile Tomato Basil Gazpacho/Soup/Bisque

There's nothing more comforting and satisfying than a delicious hearty bowl of soup!

An absolute fave of AC Art Of Food is a tomato base that works all year round as a cool summer favorite chilled gazpacho, or that of a warm soul-hugging tomato soup and/or creamier bisque. Either way, healthy delicious eating is paramount!

Coincidentally, today just so happens to be 'National Gazpacho Day'. Now, why this particular summer-season-fruit soup celebrates its national day of recognition in the Fall is beyond me. However, the ACAOF Recipe below allows for the heating of this traditional chilled bowl, turning it into a versatile soup and optional bisque to warm your spirit during chilly days.

It's amazing how one base can turn into 3 different bowls of comfort! Whichever you choose is a winner! Maybe your crave is the thick, chunky-smooth texture of the cool and refreshing gazpacho. The traditional zesty grilled cheese dunkability of the warm tomato soup just may tickle your fancy. Or your preference may be the creamier of the two in the form of a steamy bisque.

Regardless of your choice, you're choosing Great Eats & Healthy Living!

And that, my health foodies, is how you make it your own- 365 days of the year!

ACAOF RECIPE:

VERSATILE TOMATO GAZPACHO/SOUP/BISQUE

• 2 cups diced fresh or canned tomatoes

• 1 cucumber

• ½ vidalia (sweet) onion

• 3 cloves garlic

• 1-2 tbsp cooking sherry

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp Abstract Spice Lower Sodium

• 2 tsp Abstract Rose Sea Salt

• Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup fresh chopped basil (1 tbsp if dried)

• For Bisque: 1/2 cup heavy cream or unsweetened coconut milk or other plant-based dairy alternative

THE PROCESS:

1. For GAZPACHO, except for basil, blend the above ingredients until a chucky-smooth salsa-like texture. Stir in basil and enjoy!

2. For SOUP, except for basil, blend longer until smooth. Add soup to pot and heat until desired warmth. Stir in basil and enjoy!

3. For BISQUE, except for basil, add ½ cup heavy cream or unsweetened coconut milk or other plant-based dairy alternative and blend until smooth. Add to a pot and heat until desired warmth. Stir in basil and enjoy!

Pairs super with diced avocado, your favorite croutons, crackers, or warm and toasty grilled cheese!