Tomato soup

Tomato soup with vegetables and pasta is a comforting dish, ideal for any meal. This simple and quick recipe brings a touch of freshness to the plate, making it perfect for warm days or cool evenings. And if we add a few details and tips, we get a dish that is not only delicious but also healthy. Let's get to work!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 large, ripe, juicy tomatoes
- 1 medium carrot
- 2 young zucchinis
- 100 g short pasta (such as peponaki or any other type)
- 1 liter of water
- 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- White pepper, to taste

Necessary utensils:
- Cooking pot
- Large grater
- Blender or hand mixer
- Wooden spoon
- Pot lid

Step by step:

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables
Start by peeling the carrot and zucchinis. Use a large grater to grate them. This will help release the flavors and contribute to even cooking. Make sure the vegetables are well washed before peeling.

Step 2: Sautéing the vegetables
In a cooking pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Heat the oil over medium heat and add the grated carrot and zucchinis. Let them sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. This is the stage where the flavors combine and the vegetables release their juices.

Step 3: Boiling the soup
Add 1 liter of water to the pot with the vegetables and let it simmer on low heat. Cover the pot with a lid to retain heat and flavors. Let it boil for about 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables become tender.

Step 4: Preparing the tomatoes
In the meantime, prepare the tomatoes. Blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to a bowl of cold water. This will allow for easy peeling. Once peeled, crush them using a blender or hand mixer until you obtain a smooth puree.

Step 5: Combining the ingredients
Add the tomato puree to the pot with the boiled vegetables. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. This will allow the soup to enrich with the flavor of fresh tomatoes.

Step 6: Cooking the pasta
Add the short pasta, which has been rinsed under warm water to remove excess starch. Let the soup boil for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Seasoning and serving
Once the pasta is cooked, season the soup with salt and white pepper to taste. Here you have the chance to personalize the soup: you can add fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, for an extra touch of flavor.

Practical tip:
To achieve an even more flavorful soup, you can add a crushed garlic clove during the sautéing of the vegetables. Additionally, a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice at the end will enhance the soup's taste.

Possible variations:
If you want to bring another level of flavor, you can replace the short pasta with quinoa or barley. Also, adding vegetables like bell pepper or celery can enrich the texture and flavor of the soup.

Nutritional benefits:
This tomato soup is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, thanks to the tomatoes and fresh vegetables. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and lycopene, an antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Carrots are full of beta-carotene, while zucchinis provide a good amount of fiber.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes, but the taste will be different. Make sure to choose tomatoes without additives or preservatives.

2. What other spices can I add?
You can experiment with herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil to add extra flavor.

3. How can I store the soup for later consumption?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days or frozen for later use.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with crunchy croutons or a spoonful of natural yogurt to add a creamy touch. Also, a slice of garlic toast on the side will make this meal a true delight.

Conclusion:
Tomato soup with vegetables and pasta is a simple, quick, and healthy recipe, perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it for lunch or dinner, its fresh and comforting taste will make you love it. So, put on your chef's apron and enjoy this delicious tomato soup!