Refreshing summer soup

Summer refreshing soup is a dish that brings a touch of freshness and vitality on hot days. A simple and quick recipe, this soup combines the vibrant colors of vegetables with a refreshing taste, perfect for being enjoyed both hot and cold. This soup is not just a meal, but a ritual that evokes summer memories when vegetables are at their peak flavor.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 2.5 liters of water
- 200 ml of borscht (or more, to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: chili pepper, for an extra kick
- Optional: sour cream, for a creamier taste

Preparing the summer refreshing soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables very well. The carrots and tomatoes should be fresh to retain their flavor and nutrients. Slice the carrots thinly for even cooking and dice the tomatoes, which will break down easily during boiling.

2. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, add the water and bring it to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, add the carrots. They require a longer cooking time compared to the tomatoes, so it is important to add them first. Boil for about 30 minutes, until they become soft.

3. Adding the tomatoes: Once the carrots are cooked, add the diced tomatoes. Let everything boil together for another 15-20 minutes, until the tomatoes release their juice and the soup reaches a pleasant consistency.

4. Finalizing the soup: After the vegetables are cooked, add the borscht. This will give the soup a pleasant acidity and enhance the flavors. Let the soup come to a boil for another 5-10 minutes, then taste and add salt to your preference.

5. Serving: The summer refreshing soup can be served either hot or cold, depending on your preference. If you love spice, add slices of chili pepper for a more vibrant taste. A spoonful of sour cream on top will make the soup an even more delicious choice, giving it a creamy texture.

Useful tips:
- If you want to enrich the soup, you can add other vegetables, such as celery or bell pepper.
- Borscht can be replaced with lemon juice or vinegar, depending on your taste preferences.
- Don't forget to use a quality pot, like the Calve Spain Pot from Kitchen Shop, which will help distribute heat evenly and prevent ingredients from sticking.

Nutritional benefits: Vegetable soup is a healthy choice, rich in vitamins and minerals. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, and tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. These vegetables contribute to healthy skin and the proper functioning of the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can the soup be frozen? - Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is best enjoyed fresh to preserve its flavor and nutrients.
2. Can I replace the borscht with something else? - Borscht can be replaced with vinegar or lemon juice, but the taste will be different.
3. What other spices can I use? - You can experiment with fresh or dried dill, parsley, or basil to add extra flavor.

Possible variations: One variation of this soup may include adding green beans or zucchini, which will bring a crunchy texture and subtle taste. You can also turn this soup into a main dish by adding a protein such as boiled chicken or tofu.

Serving suggestion: This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted bread or flavored croutons. A seasonal salad will complete the meal, offering a full culinary experience.

The summer refreshing soup is not just a simple recipe, but a celebration of natural flavors that will refresh your soul and body on hot summer days. Enjoy it with your loved ones and savor every spoonful!