Ingredients

  • 3 medium tomatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped
  • 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and coarsely chopped
  • 1 medium-size green pepper, seeded and coarsely chopped
  • 1 cup coarsely chopped celery
  • 1/2 cup coarsely chopped green onion
  • 1 (46-ounce) can tomato juice
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
  • Dash of garlic powder
  • Pinch of dried whole basil
  • Condiments

Method

  • Combine first 13 ingredients in a large bowl, mixing well. Place one-fourth of mixture in container of an electric blender; process until almost smooth. Repeat procedure with remaining mixture. Cover and chill at least 3 hours. Transfer mixture to a large glass pitcher or bowl. Pour or ladle into individual serving bowls.
  • On a tray, arrange bowls of chopped green onion, chopped cucumber, chopped green pepper, chopped celery, and croutons to be sprinkled over each serving.