Heirloom Tomato Gazpacho with Crab-Avocado Salad from Table 926’s Executive Chef/Owner Matt Richman

1 Persian cucumber, chopped (not peeled)

3 piquillo peppers or red bell peppers , roasted, peeled and seeded

6 super ripe red heirloom tomatoes, chopped roughly

1/2 red onion

4 garlic cloves

1/4 cup high quality red or sherry vinegar

1/4 cup high quality extra virgin olive oil

1/2 tablespoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 avocado, chopped

4 ounces crab claw meat

1 teaspoon chopped cilantro

METHOD:   Combine all vegetables into a bowl and, while working in batches, bend in a blender while adding vinegar and olive oil. Once pureed, place into a container and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. As an alternative, add a touch more vinegar as a replacement for added salt.

In a separate mixing bowl, combine crab, cilantro and avocado and fold well.

To serve, place a equal parts of crab mixture into a soup bowl. Carefully ladle the soup around the mixture so as not to disturb its form. Garnish with a splash of olive oil and chopped herbs.