Most folks think gazpacho is just a tomato thing. Nah. I’ve been making it with strawberries, but watermelon? That’s a new one. It’s more than just blending fruit. It’s that rare moment when you’re craving something cool and quiet—no heavy flavors, just the clean, briny scent of cucumber and the splash of mint, waking up your senses right when the air’s still hot but the nights are creeping in.
What’s wild is how it somehow feels like a secret—like you’re sipping summer’s last laugh out of a bowl in your own kitchen. It’s unexpected in the best way. The kind of dish that makes you forget 100 degree days are numbered, even if it’s still blazing outside. I can’t tell if it’s the watermelon’s juiciness or that little zing of lime—but I do know that this fits perfectly into the weird, transitional days where you want something familiar but also surprising.
Watermelon Strawberry Gazpacho
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Using a sharp chef's knife and cutting board, dice the watermelon into small cubes, approximately 1-inch in size, and place them into a mixing bowl.1 cup strawberries, hulled
- Hull the strawberries and cut them in halves or quarters depending on size; add to the bowl with the watermelon.1 cup strawberries, hulled
- Peel the cucumber using a vegetable peeler or a paring knife, then chop into smaller pieces and add to the bowl.1 cup strawberries, hulled
- Pick fresh mint leaves and add half to the blender along with the fruit and cucumber. Blend on high until smooth and well combined, about 30-45 seconds.1 cup strawberries, hulled
- Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl or pitcher, pressing gently with a spatula to remove pulp and obtain a smooth soup.
- Stir in lime juice, a pinch of salt, and adjust seasoning to taste. Chill the gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Before serving, optionally drizzle with a little olive oil and garnish with remaining mint leaves.1 cup strawberries, hulled
Sometimes, I catch myself spooning a second bowl while thinking about whether this counts as dinner or just a well-timed snack. Whatever—you’re not gonna want to miss out on this for late summer gatherings or solo sips on your balcony. It’s strange how a bowl of cold watermelon can make you feel like everything’s kind of okay.