Tomato soup

Tomato soup is a recipe that combines the fresh flavors of summer with perfect simplicity, making it ideal for a light and refreshing meal. This soup, packed with vitamins and flavor, is an excellent choice for hot days when we want to enjoy healthy and delicious dishes. Furthermore, it is an accessible recipe that any cooking enthusiast can prepare with ease.

Preparation time
- Active time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 50 minutes
- Total: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 1 medium onion
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for a sweeter taste)
- 3-4 potatoes (preferably starchy varieties)
- 5-6 ripe tomatoes (you can also use canned tomatoes in the cold season)
- 50 g noodles (or homemade pasta for added flavor)
- 50 ml olive oil (or sunflower oil)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh lovage (for added aroma)

History of tomato soup
The origins of tomato soup span throughout history, being a popular recipe in many cultures. It is a dish that has evolved over time, adapting to local ingredients and regional preferences. Tomato soup brings together culinary traditions and is often associated with summer meals when tomatoes are at their peak of flavor and quality.

Step by step for a perfect tomato soup

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion. This will form the aromatic base of the soup. Dice the bell pepper into small cubes. I recommend choosing a red or yellow pepper, as they are sweeter and add a splash of color to the dish.

2. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, add the oil and place it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and pepper. Let them sauté for 10-15 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft. This step is crucial as it develops the depth of flavors.

3. Adding the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into medium-sized cubes. Add them to the pot and mix well. Continue to cook for about 20 minutes until the potatoes start to soften. This is a great time to check if more salt is needed.

4. The tomatoes: Meanwhile, prepare the tomatoes. If using fresh tomatoes, grate them on a large grater to make a puree. Add the grated tomatoes to the pot along with 1 liter of water (or vegetable broth if you prefer a richer taste). Let everything boil for 15-20 minutes. The aroma of fresh tomatoes will transform the soup into a true delicacy.

5. Noodles: After the mixture has boiled, add the noodles and adjust the salt. This ingredient will add a pleasant texture to your soup. Cook everything together until the noodles are done according to the package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes).

6. Finishing the soup: Once the noodles are cooked, add the finely chopped lovage. This will give a fresh scent to your soup. Stir well and let it boil for another 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors.

Serving suggestions
Tomato soup is served hot, but it is just as delicious at room temperature, especially on warm days. It can be garnished with fresh lovage leaves or a spoonful of sour cream for a creamy taste. It is also perfect alongside a slice of fresh homemade bread or crispy croutons.

Variations and tricks
- Adding other vegetables: Be creative! You can add carrots, zucchini, or even peas to enrich the flavor and increase the nutritional value of the soup.
- Spicy tomato soup: If you like to add a bit of heat, you can include chili peppers or paprika during the sautéing of the onions.
- Homemade noodles: Making homemade noodles adds a special element to your soup. Make them from flour and eggs, then cut them into thin strips.

Nutritional benefits
Tomato soup is an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Fresh vegetables provide a wealth of essential vitamins and minerals, while the noodles add complex carbohydrates for sustainable energy.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use canned tomatoes? Yes, canned tomatoes are an excellent alternative, especially in the cold season. Choose low-sodium varieties to maintain health.
- Is tomato soup vegan? Yes, this recipe is vegan as long as you use vegetable oil and do not add sour cream.
- How long does the soup keep? Tomato soup can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for up to 3 days. You can reheat it before serving.

Tomato soup is not just a simple recipe, but also a symbol of summer, bringing the colors and fresh flavors of seasonal vegetables to your table. Try this recipe today and enjoy every spoonful! Enjoy your meal!