Tomato soup

Tomato soup – a simple and comforting delight, perfect for any occasion

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Tomato soup is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations, bringing a touch of warmth and comfort on chilly days. This simple and quick recipe will provide you not only with a delicious soup but also an opportunity to enjoy the natural flavors of fresh vegetables. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or as a main course alongside a light salad, tomato soup is versatile and full of flavor.

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 cans of peeled tomatoes (approximately 800 g)
- 1 small onion
- 1 bell pepper (green or red, according to preference)
- A handful of fresh basil (or dried if fresh is not available)
- 1 poppy seed roll
- 1 clove of garlic
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 liter of water

Preparation of tomato soup – detailed steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion and bell pepper. It is important that these vegetables are cut evenly to cook uniformly. If you want a soup with a more intense vegetable flavor, you can use a red bell pepper, which is sweeter.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a medium-sized pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

3. Adding the tomatoes: Once the vegetables have softened, add the 2 cans of peeled tomatoes to the pot. Mix well, allowing the tomatoes to combine with the onion and bell pepper. Let them sauté together for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Boiling the soup: Add 1 liter of water to the pot and bring the soup to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to develop and combine.

5. Blending the soup: After 30 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and use a blender to puree the soup. If you do not have a blender, you can use a sieve, but it will require more effort. Blending the soup will create a creamy, pleasant consistency that will make the soup more comforting.

6. Seasoning: Add salt, pepper, and fresh basil (or dried) to taste. The basil adds a fresh and aromatic note, perfect for complementing the taste of the tomatoes.

7. Preparing the bread: During the boiling time, cut the poppy seed roll in half and place it on the grill to lightly toast. After removing it from the grill, rub each half with a clove of garlic to give it an intense flavor.

8. Serving: Serve the soup hot, alongside the toasted roll or toasted bread croutons. You can garnish each serving with a few fresh basil leaves for an attractive look and an extra burst of flavor.

Useful tips:
- Variations of the recipe: You can add other vegetables, such as carrots or celery, to enrich the soup's flavor. You can also include a hot pepper for a spicy kick.
- Tomato soup and health: Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body. This soup is low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can the soup be frozen? Yes, tomato soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
- Can I use fresh tomatoes? Sure! If you have fresh tomatoes, you can peel them and use them instead of canned ones. You will achieve a soup with a more intense taste and aroma.

Serving suggestions: You can accompany the tomato soup with a glass of dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade for a pleasant contrast. Additionally, a green salad or a salad of raw vegetables would go perfectly alongside it.

Tomato soup is more than just a simple meal; it is a culinary experience that brings joy and comfort. Enjoy this simple recipe and you will delight in a delicious dish that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or for a gathering with friends, this tomato soup will surely become a favorite for everyone!