Summer Watermelon Gazpacho

For those who know me, they know my favorite summertime food is watermelon.  I love watermelon any way you slice it, no pun intended!  I had a watermelon gazpacho at a restaurant several years ago & knew that I had to recreate it.  There is not much more refreshing on a hot day than a cup of this raw, vegan soup.  Try it, you'll see!  You really can modify this any way you want, just make sure the base is watermelon.

Ingredients:

• 6-8 cups fresh watermelon chunks
• 1 medium green bell pepper
• 1 medium red bell pepper (optional)
• 1/2 large cucumber
• 1-2 cups fresh tomatoes
• 1/2 cup fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Juice from 1 fresh lime
• 1 tsp ginger paste - or 1/2 inch fresh ginger
• 2 stalks of celery, including greens
• 1 clove of garlic or 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 jalapeño (optional)

Blend all ingredients in Vitamix or good blender until smooth.  You can add some roasted pumpkin seeds or chopped avocado on top when serving.
Serve chilled.  Enjoy!

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