Tomato soup with croutons

Tomato soup with croutons: an explosion of fresh flavors

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

Tomato soup with croutons is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a touch of sunshine to your plate. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also healthy, packed with vitamins and antioxidants. The origins of tomato soup are lost in the mists of time, with deep roots in traditional cuisine, where tomatoes were considered a staple ingredient, especially in the warm months. This soup can be served as an appetizer or a light main course, perfect for summer days or moments when you want to cool off.

Ingredients:
- 4-5 ripe tomatoes (choose well, with a deep color and firm texture)
- 2 cucumbers (opt for fresh ones, preferably from the garden)
- 1 onion (can be white or red, depending on preference)
- 1/2 green bell pepper (for a hint of sweetness)
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper (adds vibrant color and subtle flavor)
- 1 slice of bread (you can use whole grain bread for added nutrition)
- 1-2 teaspoons of olive oil (choose a high-quality oil for a more intense flavor)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic (fresh, for a stronger aroma)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Bread croutons (for a crunchy and delicious contrast)

Step by step:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing the vegetables under cold running water. Tomatoes and cucumbers should be peeled, and for tomatoes, you can blanch them for 30 seconds to remove the skin more easily. Remove the seeds from the green and yellow bell peppers and dice them. Chop the onion finely.

2. Blend the ingredients: In a food processor bowl, add the tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Ensure all ingredients are well chopped to facilitate even blending. Turn on the processor and blend for 3-4 minutes until you achieve a smooth consistency, similar to a soup. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can leave some larger pieces.

3. Season: Once the soup is blended, add the olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well to integrate the flavors. If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can add a little cold water or tomato juice to adjust the consistency.

4. Chill the soup: Transfer the soup into bowls or bottles and let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will enhance the flavors and make the soup refreshing.

5. Prepare the croutons: Cut the slice of bread into small cubes. You can toast them in a pan with a little olive oil and a crushed clove of garlic to give them a delicious flavor. Toast until golden and crispy.

6. Serve: Take the soup out of the fridge and pour it into bowls. Sprinkle the bread croutons on top, and if desired, you can add a fresh basil leaf or a slice of lemon for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical tips:
- Choose ripe, seasonal tomatoes for an intense and natural flavor. Quality tomatoes make a difference!
- If you want a spicier soup, add a little chili pepper or spices like paprika or chili.
- You can experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or celery, to give the soup a variety of flavors.
- This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or a simple sandwich.

Nutritional benefits:
Tomato soup is rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber. Tomatoes contain lycopene, a compound with strong antioxidant properties that contribute to heart health. Cucumbers provide hydration with their high water content, while garlic offers antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones? Of course! Canned tomatoes can be a good alternative, especially out of season, but the taste will be different.
- How do I store the soup? You can keep the soup in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. I recommend adding the croutons just before serving to keep them crispy.
- What drinks pair best with this soup? A dry white wine or a mint lemonade cocktail can perfectly complement the flavors of the soup.

Try this simple tomato soup with croutons recipe, and let yourself be carried away by the fresh flavors and the taste of seasonal vegetables. It is an excellent choice for a light, healthy, and delicious meal!