Tomato soup

Tomato soup is one of those recipes that reminds us of childhood and warm family meals. It is a perfect choice for both chilly winter days and hot summer days when served cold. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, being an excellent source of vitamins from vegetables and tomatoes. Additionally, it is a simple and quick recipe, ideal for those who want to prepare a healthy dish without too much effort.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 medium carrots
- 2 medium onions
- 2 small potatoes
- 1/4 celery
- 1 kg fresh tomatoes or 2 cans of 400 g diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Optional: juice of half a lemon

Step by step for a perfect tomato soup:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling and washing all the vegetables. The carrots and celery can be diced into small cubes, while the onion should be finely chopped. The potatoes can be cut into medium-sized cubes for even cooking.

2. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, add 2 liters of water and bring the prepared vegetables (carrots, onion, celery, and potatoes) to a boil. Ensure that the water is at room temperature, and when it starts to boil, let the vegetables simmer for about 15 minutes until they become tender.

3. Preparing the tomatoes: In the meantime, peel the tomatoes. An easy method is to blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then quickly transfer them to cold water. The skin will come off easily. Dice the tomatoes. If you choose canned tomatoes, make sure they are of high quality to achieve a tasty soup.

4. Preparing the bell pepper: Dice the bell pepper into small cubes. In a separate pan, add the olive oil and sauté the bell pepper for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes slightly soft. This will add a rich flavor to your soup.

5. Finishing the soup: Once the vegetables in the pot are cooked, add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and sautéed bell pepper. Mix well and let simmer for another 10-15 minutes for the flavors to combine. If you prefer a slightly tangy soup, add the lemon juice.

6. Seasoning: Finally, adjust the soup with salt to taste and add the freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

7. Serving: Tomato soup can be served hot, but it is just as delicious cold. You can add a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt for a creamy taste, or even croutons for added texture.

Tips and useful advice:
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add some herbs like basil or oregano, either during boiling or at serving.
- If you want a heartier soup, you can also add some red beans or lentils.
- Replace parsley with dill or cilantro for a different note of freshness.
- Tomato soup pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted bread or a fresh green salad.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is a rich source of vitamins, especially vitamin C from tomatoes and antioxidants that contribute to skin health and strengthen the immune system. The vegetables add fiber, essential for healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes? Yes, it's an excellent and time-saving alternative. Make sure they are of good quality and without additives.
- How can I store the soup? The soup keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for later use.
- What can I do if the soup is too sour? You can add a little sugar to balance the acidity.

Tomato soup is undoubtedly a staple recipe in anyone's kitchen, bringing not only a delicious taste but also a sense of comfort and warmth. I encourage you to experiment with the ingredients and put your personal touch on this simple recipe. Enjoy your meal!