In the middle of summer, sungold cherry tomatoes taste like candy. They brighten this soup's flavor, as does the piment d'Espelette, a smoky pepper from the Basque region.
Soak tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, bell pepper, and garlic in water for 5 minutes, then drain.
In a blender, process vegetables and garlic on high speed for 1 minute. Pass mixture through fine sieve; discard pulp.
Return liquid to blender, and add vinegar and piment d'Espelette in thirds, blending on low and tasting after each addition. Stop when flavors are balanced.
With blender running, add olive oil in a slow, steady stream, about 1 minute. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and sherry vinegar. Serve slightly chilled.
Serve this soup with
Cucumber-Cream Cheese Sandwiches.
Note: Piment d'Espelette is available at Williams-Sonoma, Williams-Sonoma.com.
