Creamy bell pepper and tomato soup

Creamy bell pepper and tomato soup

When we want to indulge our taste buds with a delicious soup, full of flavors and vibrant colors, creamy bell pepper and tomato soup is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also healthy, based on fresh vegetables that provide us with a mix of vitamins and minerals. Moreover, this soup can be adapted for various diets, being suitable for both vegans and those looking to reduce calorie intake.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 4 red bell peppers
- 4 large tomatoes
- 1 carrot
- 1 celery root + 2 celery stalks
- 1 parsley root
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- a pinch of chili (optional, for extra spiciness)
- oregano (to taste)
- 3 teaspoons of olive oil
- noodles (optional, for serving)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables under cold running water. Peel the bell peppers, tomatoes, carrot, celery, and parsley. Cut the bell peppers and tomatoes into two or three pieces, and the other vegetables into cubes. It’s important to choose fresh vegetables, as they will influence the final taste of the soup.

2. Boiling the vegetables: Place all the chopped vegetables in a large pot and add water to cover them. It’s ideal to use a lid to speed up the boiling process. This will help preserve the flavors and nutrients from the vegetables. Set the pot over medium heat and let it boil for 20-25 minutes, until the vegetables become soft.

3. Cooling and blending: When the vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for 3-4 minutes. This will make the soup easier to blend. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to turn the cooked vegetables into a smooth cream. Start by adding a little of the boiling water if necessary, to achieve the desired consistency.

4. Seasoning: After obtaining a homogeneous cream, place the soup back on low heat. Add salt, pepper, chili (if you like it spicy), and oregano to taste. Don’t forget to add the olive oil, which will add flavor and make the soup richer. Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes to intensify the flavors.

5. Preparing the noodles: While the soup is simmering, you can prepare the noodles. Boil them in salted water with a little oil for 2 minutes, then drain and add them to the bowls with soup when serving.

6. Serving: Start by pouring the hot soup into bowls. You can add noodles to each serving for a pleasant texture. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh look and added flavor.

Useful tips:

- Vegan option: This soup is already vegan, but you can omit the noodles or use a whole grain version for a more nutritious meal.
- Flavors: Feel free to experiment with various spices, such as basil or thyme, to change the flavor profile of the soup.
- Thickening the soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a diced potato during the boiling of the vegetables.
- Storage: Creamy bell pepper and tomato soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, and the flavor gets even better the next day.

Nutritional benefits:

This soup is rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the bell peppers and tomatoes, which are known for their antioxidant properties. The carrot and celery add essential fiber for digestion, while the olive oil provides healthy fats that contribute to heart health.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but you will need to boil them a little longer to soften.

2. How can I make this soup spicier?
Add more chili or even a hot pepper sauce at serving, depending on your preferences.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
You can experiment with zucchini, potato, or even peas to change the texture and flavor of the soup.

4. What drinks pair well with this soup?
A bottle of dry white wine or a refreshing herbal tea perfectly complements the meal.

Creamy bell pepper and tomato soup is not just a simple recipe, but a way to bring joy and health to every bowl. Enjoy it while hot, savoring every bite, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones! Bon appétit!