Tomato soup

Fresh tomato soup is a perfect dish for hot summer days, bringing a splash of freshness and vitality to the plate. This tomato soup recipe is simple, delicious, and easy to prepare, making it ideal for impressing family and friends. It can also be served cold, making it perfect for a light summer meal.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 2.5 kg ripe tomatoes (choose quality tomatoes, preferably organic, for an intense flavor)
- 1 l water
- Sugar, to taste (helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- A few cloves of garlic (optional, for added flavor)
- A few fresh basil leaves (together with the tomatoes, create a perfect mix of flavors)
- Fresh thyme (for a Mediterranean taste)
- 2 onions (onion adds sweetness and depth to the soup)
- 1 root celery and leaves (preferably fresh, for a natural taste)
- 2 bell peppers (any color, for a touch of sweetness and color)
- 2 carrots (for a hint of natural sweetness)
- 1 cream (optional, for a richer texture)
- A handful of rice (optional, but adds consistency)
- A hearty bunch of lovage (distinct flavor)
- A bunch of fresh parsley (for garnish and flavor)

Preparation method:

1. Start by washing the tomatoes well. Cut them in half and place them in a large pot with 1 liter of boiling water. Blanch them for 5 minutes, then remove them from the water and peel them. This step is essential for achieving a smooth soup without skins.

2. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic, if you choose to use it. Sauté them in olive oil over medium heat until they become translucent and fragrant.

3. Add the diced celery, carrots, and bell peppers. Continue to cook the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step will intensify the flavors and create a tasty base for the soup.

4. Add the peeled tomatoes to the pot, mixing well. You can lightly mash them with a fork to help release their juice. Add water, sugar, thyme, the rice (if using) and let the soup simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, until all the vegetables are tender.

5. When the soup is ready, season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the basil and lovage leaves, letting it simmer for a few minutes to release the flavors. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the soup with an immersion blender.

6. Serve the soup hot or cold, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and a few basil leaves. You can accompany it with toasted bread croutons or feta cheese for an extra touch of flavor.

Useful tips:
- Choose very ripe tomatoes, as they are sweeter and more flavorful, an essential aspect of a successful tomato soup.
- You can experiment with other herbs, such as oregano or rosemary, to vary the flavors.
- If you want a heartier soup, add more rice or even pasta.
- Tomato soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, so you can make a larger batch for a quick lunch on hand.

This tomato soup recipe is not only a healthy choice but also a wonderful way to savor the taste of summer. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main course, tomato soup will surely be a hit on your table!