Introduction

Chilled tomato soup is a refreshing and flavorful dish, perfect for hot summer days or as a light appetizer. This recipe showcases the natural sweetness of fresh tomatoes, enhanced with a few simple ingredients. The bright flavors and smooth texture make it a delightful choice for those looking to enjoy a cold soup option.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Tomatoes – 6 cups, chopped
Cucumber – 1 cup, peeled and diced
Red bell pepper – 1 cup, chopped
Red onion – 1/2 cup, chopped
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Olive oil – 1/4 cup
Red wine vinegar – 2 tablespoons
Fresh basil – 1/4 cup, chopped
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Water – as needed for blending

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8

This chilled tomato soup offers a deliciously vibrant taste with minimal effort. Ideal for entertaining or a simple meal at home, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy your fresh and healthy creation!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Base

Start by washing and chopping fresh ripe tomatoes, ensuring to remove any blemishes.

Blend the Ingredients

In a blender, combine the chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Add a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper for seasoning. Blend the mixture until it becomes smooth.

Add Additional Flavor

To the blended mixture, add extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and fresh basil leaves. Blend again until thoroughly combined.

Chill the Soup

Once the soup is well-mixed, pour it into a large bowl or container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to chill.

Serve the Soup

Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Pour the chilled soup into bowls and garnish with additional basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

Ingredient Selection

Using ripe and fresh tomatoes will greatly enhance the flavor of the soup. Organic tomatoes are recommended if available.

Texture Preference

For a smoother texture, blend the soup for a longer period. To keep some texture, blend it briefly or pulse the mixture.

Storage Instructions

Chilled tomato soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it is covered to maintain freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a light salad. Consider adding croutons for added crunch.

Cook techniques

Chilling the Soup

Chill the tomato soup for several hours or overnight to enhance its flavors. This allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a more harmonious taste.

Blending Ingredients

Use a blender to puree the tomatoes and other ingredients until smooth. This technique creates a creamy texture without the need for cream.

Using Fresh Herbs

Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor. Chopping them finely and adding them after blending helps maintain their vibrant taste and color.

Adjusting Consistency

If the soup is too thick, add a little cold water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. This flexibility allows you to customize the soup to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chilled tomato soup with garnishes such as croutons or a drizzle of olive oil for added texture and flavor. This enhances the visual appeal of the dish.

FAQ

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes, using canned tomatoes can be convenient and still yield delicious results. Choose high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.

How long can I store the chilled tomato soup?

The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it is in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze the soup for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

Experiment with flavors by adding ingredients such as roasted red peppers, cucumbers, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a unique twist.

Is this soup healthy?

Yes, chilled tomato soup is generally healthy as it is low in calories and packed with vitamins and antioxidants, especially if made with fresh ingredients.

Conclusion

Chilled tomato soup is a refreshing and flavorful dish that brings the taste of summer to your table year-round. Its vibrant flavor, combined with a smooth and creamy texture, makes it an excellent choice for a light appetizer or a main course. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows for plenty of creativity in terms of garnishes and pairings.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Caprese Salad

Pair your chilled tomato soup with a fresh Caprese salad made of ripe tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Enjoy your soup alongside a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting combination that is sure to please.

Avocado Toast

Serve chilled tomato soup with a slice of avocado toast sprinkled with salt and pepper for a trendy and nutritious meal.

Crusty Bread

Complement the soup with slices of crusty bread or baguette for dipping, enhancing the overall experience of the dish.

Gazpacho

Explore other cold soups like gazpacho for a delightful variation that combines different vegetables and flavors.

Quinoa Salad

A light quinoa salad with fresh vegetables and herbs makes a nutritious side dish that pairs excellently with chilled tomato soup.

Roasted Vegetable Platter

Serve the soup with a platter of roasted vegetables, providing a savory contrast to the cool, tangy soup.