Summer time and the livin' is easy

We are enjoying a wonderful warm summer here in Southern England: as soon as the sun comes out we head out to make the most of it. The beaches are busy, but the garden is quiet the balmy sun warming and browning my pale skin while a lazy breeze rustles the Roses in full bloom their delicate sent drifting along in waves while the dog rolls blissfully in the grass. 

The riper the tomatoes the deeper the colour

There is so much to treasure at this time of the year but in particular the appearance of seasonal fruits and vegetables; their freshness and piquancy is at its height.  I received some delicious vine ripened tomatoes and a flavoursome cucumber this week - just perfect for gazpacho soup.

To enjoy your own all you need is:

6 large ripe tomatoes

1/2 cucumber peeled

I large red pepper

1 large red onion

1 clove of garlic 

100ml olive oil

A splash of Red wine vinegar

A couple of teaspoons of sun dried tomato puree

A large handful of mint fresh from the garden 

(I have some sensual lemon mint that just adds a delicate note to the soup)

Just blitz it all up in a liquidiser or blender until you have a smooth consistency

Pass through the sieve to remove the seeds and skin of the peppers and tomatoes

Leave to cool in the fridge for at least an hour or if you don't want to wait add ice and blitz again

Best enjoyed out in the garden - relaxing with a good book or the Sunday papers, 

 a nice cool glass of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc or a pitcher of Pimms at your side.

Oh yes....summer time and the living is easy!