Tomato soup

Tomato Soup with Pasta - A Comforting and Flavorful Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Let's enjoy a delicious tomato soup that is easy to prepare yet extremely satisfying! This dish is not only a quick and healthy meal but also a traditional recipe passed down through generations. With a perfect combination of fresh vegetables and juicy tomatoes, the tomato soup with pasta is a dish that will warm your soul and remind you of family Sunday dinners.

Ingredients:

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 large carrot, grated on a large grater
- 1 parsnip, grated (optional but recommended for extra flavor)
- 1 large can of peeled tomatoes in juice (about 800g)
- 100g pasta (fusilli or penne are ideal)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar (to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons of Delikat or salt, to preference
- Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or thyme, finely chopped)

Necessary Utensils:

- A large pot
- A cutting board
- A sharp knife
- A grater
- A wooden spoon for stirring

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by peeling and washing the vegetables. Chop the onion finely, while grating the carrot and parsnip well. These vegetables will add a sweet and pleasant flavor to your soup.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables: In a large pot, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent (about 3-4 minutes). This step is essential to release the onion's flavors.

3. Adding the Grated Vegetables: Add the grated carrot and parsnip and continue to sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. These vegetables will provide a tasty and healthy base for the soup.

4. Boiling: Cover the vegetables with water (about 1 liter) and let them simmer on low heat. It is important not to boil too quickly, so the vegetables cook evenly and retain their texture. Let them simmer for 10-15 minutes.

5. Adding Tomatoes and Pasta: When the vegetables are nearly done, add the can of peeled tomatoes (with juice) and the pasta. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes or until the pasta is cooked al dente.

6. Adjusting the Taste: Before turning off the heat, taste the soup and add vinegar and Delikat (or salt) to preference. The vinegar will add a pleasant contrast of acidity that will enhance the flavors of the tomatoes.

7. Finishing the Soup: Once you have achieved the desired taste, turn off the heat and add the finely chopped fresh herbs. This will bring an extra freshness and perfectly complement the flavors of the soup.

Serving:

Tomato soup with pasta is delicious served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. You can also add a splash of sour cream or yogurt for extra creaminess. If you want to give it an even bolder flavor, serve with freshly chopped chili pepper on the side.

Helpful Tips:

- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell pepper, to diversify the recipe. Additionally, you can use whole grain pasta for a healthier option.
- Fresh Tomatoes: If you prefer fresh tomatoes, use about 1 kg of ripe, peeled, and diced tomatoes. Cook them a little longer to break them down.
- Storage: The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavor improves as it sits. You can also freeze it for later use, but add the pasta only at the time of serving to avoid it becoming mushy.

Nutritional Benefits:

Tomato soup is rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, due to the tomatoes, and contains antioxidants that help protect the body. The vegetables in the soup provide a source of fiber, essential for healthy digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cherry tomatoes, but you will need to cook them a little longer to break them down.

- What other spices can I add for a more intense flavor?
You can experiment with dried basil, oregano, or even a pinch of paprika for a spicy note.

- How can I turn this soup into a main dish?
Add diced chicken or beef and let it simmer together with the vegetables for a heartier dish.

I hope this tomato soup with pasta becomes one of your favorites! It is a simple, quick recipe full of flavors, perfect for any day of the week. Enjoy!