SO EASY GAZPACHO

My daughter got this recipe from a friend a few years ago. Now I serve it often as an appetizer. It certainly is the talk of the party!

—LORNA SIRTOLI CORTLAND, NY



PREP: 10 MIN. + CHILLING • MAKES: 5 SERVINGS


2 cups tomato juice

4 medium tomatoes, peeled and finely chopped

1/2 cup chopped seeded peeled cucumber

1/3 cup finely chopped onion

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup cider vinegar

1 teaspoon sugar

1 garlic clove, minced

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours or until chilled.

BLACK BEAN ZUCCHINI GAZPACHO Substitute 2 large tomatoes for the four medium. Add 1 can (15 oz.) drained rinsed black beans, 2 chopped medium zucchini and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne.

REFRESHING GAZPACHO Increase tomato juice to 4 1/2 cups. Add 2 chopped celery ribs, 1 finely chopped red onion, 1 each chopped medium sweet red pepper and green pepper, 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 2 teaspoons sugar and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire. Serve with cubed avocado if desired.