Summer Garden Gazpacho

This refreshing and flavorful cold soup is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support healthy teeth and gums. Plus, the crunchy vegetables provide natural cleaning action to help remove plaque.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped

• 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped

• 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped

• 1/2 red onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, or cilantro), chopped

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor.

2. Pulse until smooth, but still with some texture.

3. Chill for at least 2 hours.

4. Taste and adjust seasonings.

5. Serve garnished with additional chopped herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.

Why it's good for your oral health:

• Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C, which helps strengthen gums and prevent bleeding.

• Cucumber: High in water content, which helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids.

• Bell pepper: Another good source of vitamin C, as well as other antioxidants that protect against cell damage.

• Red onion: Contains sulfur compounds that have antibacterial properties.

• Garlic: Has natural antibiotic and antifungal properties.

• Fresh herbs: Provide additional antioxidants and flavor.

• Olive oil: A healthy fat that helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins and reduce inflammation.

• Red wine vinegar: Adds acidity to help break down food particles and stimulate saliva production.

Enjoy this delicious and nutritious soup as a light lunch or appetizer!