Gazpacho

Ingredients

• 6 ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups tomato juice
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt
• pepper
• Optional: 2 teaspoons sugar, to balance acidity
• Optional: Hot sauce, to taste
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil) for garnish
• Croutons for serving