There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a bowl of cold, refreshing gazpacho when the temperatures are rising. Gazpacho hails from Spain, specifically Andalusia, the southernmost part of Spain, which gets the warmest in the summer. It was crafted to be enjoyed during hot summer days as a light lunch or simple appetizer. Traditionally made with bread, tomatoes, olive oil, and onion, which are then blended to a creamy texture and chilled, nowadays there are lots of different variations on this classic cold soup recipe. Here is a list of five gazpachos available in NoVA, ranging from the more standard to the wildly creative.
Bartaco
If you are craving a classic, tomato-centric gazpacho, try the one at Bartaco. It’s made with tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, and olive oil, and the only major deviation from a traditional gazpacho is the addition of peppers, both poblano and red bell peppers. The dish is smooth, cold, and has a bit of a kick from the peppers. A drizzle of olive oil adds some extra fruitiness, and a handful of croutons brings a crunchy note. 2920 District Ave., Ste. 120, Fairfax; 12021 Town Square St., Reston; 4238 Wilson Blvd., Ballston
Colada Shop
The seasonal corn gazpacho at Colada Shop is as pretty to look at as it is delicious to consume. The soup is made by blending corn with coconut milk, resulting in a gazpacho that is velvety and rich. Adorned with fresh herbs and kernels of corn, this is a delightful twist on the original tomato gazpacho. 2811 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington; 2920 District Ave., Fairfax
Field & Main
Rather than using raw tomatoes, Field and Main makes their gazpacho with wood-fired tomatoes, which gives the soup a smoky element, adding depth of flavor. A few drops of olive oil and a sprinkling of parmesan make the dish extra special. It should be noted that the menu at Field & Main changes weekly. 8369 W. Main St., Marshall
Maple Avenue Restaurant
For something truly distinct, try this Lithuanian gazpacho. Beets rather than tomatoes are blended with cucumber and dill, which produces a gazpacho that features a pink hue and with blue potatoes, it has a taste that is sweet and savory all at once. 147 Maple Ave. W., Vienna
Vermillion
Available only on Vermillion’s tavern menu is a bright tomato and melon gazpacho, complete with crunchy pine nuts, some Calabrian chilis for a bit of heat, and tomato vinegar. It’s got a bite, but still retains the lightness of a cold summer soup. 1120 King St., Alexandria
The Union Restaurant
Head to the Union Restaurant to try a cool, slightly sweeter version of your typical gazpacho. Made with watermelon, this gazpacho is fun, fruit-forward, and hydrating. 1379 Beverly Rd., McLean
Feature image courtesy Maple Avenue Restaurant
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