Preparation

• In a bowl, mix the tomatoes, yellow pepper, onion, cucumber, vinegar, garlic, olive oil, and bread. In a blender, purée the mixture in batches at high speed until very smooth, about 3 minutes. Pass through a coarse strainer. Stir in 2-1/2 tsp. salt and 1/2 tsp. pepper. Refrigerate until well chilled, at least 1 hour. Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed.

To make the garnish

• Heat the oven to 375°F. In a small saucepan, melt the butter in the oil over medium-high heat. Add the crushed garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is a light golden color, about 1 minute. Discard the garlic. Spread the torn pieces of bread in a single layer on a baking sheet, drizzle with the butter and oil mixture and toss well. Bake, tossing the bread cubes occasionally, until golden, 10 to 12 minutes.

To serve

• Ladle the chilled soup into serving bowls and garnish with the toasted bread, green pepper, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion.