What to serve with Gazpacho + Authentic Recipe

As Spaniards from the warmest region of the country, Andalusia, we grew up eating one of the healthiest dishes in Spanish cuisine almost every day during the summer months (and often in other seasons too): Gazpacho. Gazpacho is a refreshing and tasty cold soup made from tomatoes, vegetables (cucumber, green bell pepper), extra virgin olive oil, Sherry vinegar (from Jerez, obviously), and salt. It is a typical Spanish dish especially enjoyed during the summer months. It is a versatile dish that, due to its delicious flavor and simple ingredients, pairs with (almost) anything you can think of.

Here, we list the most typical and traditional Spanish accompaniments, along with some bolder options that have recently become trendy:

Toppings for Gazpacho

Crusty bread and olive oil

Gazpacho is traditionally served with crusty bread, either in the form of croutons or slices. You can accompany it with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to further enhance its flavor.

Fresh vegetables

• Chopped onion
• Chopped green or red pepper
• Chopped fresh tomato
• Chopped cucumber

Traditionally, especially in southern regions of Spain such as Andalusia, it is usually served with all these ingredients forming a garnish of vegetables, which add a touch of freshness and light touches that further enhance the flavor of our gazpacho. Additionally, it adds a beautiful colorful touch!

Protein

Jamón Ibérico

A slice of quality Iberian ham is the perfect complement to gazpacho. The contrast between the salty flavor of the ham and the freshness of the gazpacho is simply delicious.

Chopped hard-boiled eggs

Chopped hard-boiled eggs add a creamy texture to gazpacho and provide an extra touch of protein. Plus, they are very easy to prepare and complement its flavor very well.

Bold touches

In recent times, new accompaniments for this delicious soup have been incorporated. Here are some of the most common:

Avocado

Avocado slices are an excellent addition to gazpacho. Its creamy texture and mild flavor contrast perfectly with the acidity of the tomato and vegetables.

Prawns or shrimp

Cooked and peeled prawns or shrimp are an elegant option to accompany gazpacho. They bring a fresh and seafood touch that combines perfectly with its flavor.

With these ideas, you can enjoy your gazpacho in an even more delicious and complete way!

Dishes to pair Gazpacho with

Gazpacho, being a dish made primarily from vegetables, can be paired with any other dish for a complete menu. However, if you want a 100% authentic Spanish gastronomic experience, here are the dishes it is commonly paired with in any Spanish home:

Tortilla de Patatas (Spanish Potato Omelette)

Is there anything more typical in Spain than a home-cooked lunch of gazpacho and tortilla de patatas, of course made by your mother? Few meals are as delicious as this, and the best part is that they are made with simple ingredients that can be found in any supermarket!

Croquetas

Alright, I suppose by now there's no need to explain what croquettes are. But still, we will. Croquetas are a traditional Spanish dish, known for their crispy exterior and creamy interior. They are made with a base of béchamel sauce (a thick sauce made with butter, flour, and milk) mixed with various ingredients such as ham, chicken, cod, spinach, or others. This mixture is then chilled, shaped into small cylindrical or spherical portions, coated in egg and breadcrumbs, and fried until golden and crispy. They are a very popular appetizer in Spain and are enjoyed both at home and in bars and restaurants. 

Boquerones en Vinagre (Marinated White Anchovies)

Another summer classic in Spain. Few meals are as refreshing as a chilled gazpacho alongside some cold boquerones en vinagre. This typical Spanish dish is made with white anchovies, vinegar, and olive oil. The anchovies are frozen beforehand, and after thawing, they are cleaned and cured in vinegar for 2 days. When ready to serve, they are drizzled with Spanish extra virgin olive oil and topped with chopped garlic and parsley. SPECTACULAR.

Filetes Empanados (Breaded Fillets)

Breaded fillets, known as "filetes empanados" in Spanish, are another popular dish. Thin slices of meat, usually chicken, pork, or beef, are seasoned, coated in flour, dipped in beaten egg, and then covered with breadcrumbs before being fried until golden and crispy. These fillets are enjoyed for their crunchy exterior and tender, juicy interior.

Charcuterie Board

Another dish that perfectly complements gazpacho. What could be more Spanish than authentic Andalusian gazpacho paired with a Spanish charcuterie board featuring Jamón Ibérico, Pork loin, Chorizo, Salchichón, and some Spanish crackers like picos camperos? Here’s a suggestion: try spreading a bit of gazpacho on a slice of toasted bread, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top, and place your favorite sliced cured meat on it!

Grilled/Canned Fish

We end with another very healthy, delicious, and typical Spanish combination, especially in the coastal areas of Andalusia: grilled fish and gazpacho. A true boost of vegetables, proteins, and vitamins, and low in fat. It is also perfectly acceptable to pair it with your favorite Spanish tinned fish, especially sardines in olive oil, mackerel, or bonito del norte.

These are just some of the most typical examples in Spanish homes and restaurants, but as you can see, the combinations are nearly endless...and there are few meals as versatile and healthy as gazpacho!

Authentic Gazpacho Recipe

Don't know how to make gazpacho? Find the authentic recipe at The Tapas Corner, the blog recipes by Ibérico Taste!

Where to buy Gazpacho?

Don't have time to cook? Try our Andalusian gazpacho, made 100% with natural ingredients!