Tomato soup

Tomato soup with vegetables and pasta - a refreshing and vitamin-packed recipe

Tomato soup with vegetables and pasta is an excellent choice for hot summer days, offering a perfect combination of tomato flavor, fresh vegetables, and the pleasant texture of pasta. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for any cooking enthusiast. Let's embark together on the preparation of this savory soup!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:
- 3-4 ripe and juicy tomatoes (preferably organic for an intense flavor)
- 1 celery root (about 200 g)
- 2-3 medium carrots
- Celery leaves (dried or fresh, for added flavor)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 200 ml broth (preferably homemade)
- Salt (to taste)
- A handful of chopped fresh parsley (for finishing)
- 100 g pasta (choose small-sized pasta, such as penne or macaroni)

A few useful tips about ingredients:
- Tomatoes: Choose well-ripened tomatoes for a soup with a rich taste. If you want to remove the skin, blanching them for 30 seconds in hot water will make this process very simple.
- Celery: This adds extra flavor and nutrients to the soup. It is full of antioxidants and has health benefits.
- Carrots: These are not only an excellent source of beta-carotene but also an essential ingredient for adding sweetness to the soup.
- Pasta: Be mindful of the amount of pasta, as it will double or triple in volume after boiling. It is important not to overdo the quantity.

Preparation:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by cleaning and washing all the vegetables. Cut the celery into small cubes, the carrots into rounds or cubes, and finely chop the onion. You can cut the tomatoes into larger pieces, and if you wish, you can peel them by blanching.

2. Boil the vegetables: In a large pot, add about 1.5 liters of water and bring it to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the chopped vegetables (celery, carrots, and onion) and a pinch of salt. Let it boil for about 15-20 minutes until the vegetables become tender.

3. Add the tomatoes: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the chopped tomatoes. They will give a fresh taste to the soup and contribute to its consistency. If using canned tomatoes, make sure they are of good quality.

4. Incorporate the broth and pasta: After the tomatoes have softened, pour the broth into the pot and stir. Then, add the pasta. Let the soup boil for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.

5. Finish the soup: After 10 minutes, check if the pasta is cooked. If ready, turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh parsley. This will add a fresh taste and a splash of color.

6. Serving:
Tomato soup with vegetables and pasta can be served hot or cold. If you prefer it cold, let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for a few hours. It is perfect alongside a slice of garlic toast or a fresh summer salad.

Personal variant: A serving suggestion that I really enjoy is to add a few drops of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving. These will enhance the flavors and provide a refined taste.

Frequently asked questions:
- How long can the soup be stored? This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. However, it is recommended to add the pasta only before serving to prevent excessive liquid absorption.
- Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! The soup is versatile; you can add zucchini, bell peppers, or even green peas for varied texture and taste.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is packed with vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and the vegetables add essential fiber to the diet. The pasta provides complex carbohydrates, which are a source of energy. It is an excellent choice for a healthy lunch or a light dinner.

In conclusion, tomato soup with vegetables and pasta is not just a nourishing dish but also a wonderful way to bring summer to your plate. Whether you enjoy it hot or cold, each bite will be an explosion of flavors and freshness. I encourage you to try this simple recipe and customize it to your tastes. Enjoy!