TOMATO SOUP

Tomato soup is a classic dish, full of flavor, that brings the essence of summer to our table, even when the weather is cooler. This simple and versatile recipe not only delights the taste buds but also offers a wealth of nutritional benefits. Let's embark on this journey together to prepare this delicious soup!

Preparation time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 medium beet
- 2 bunches of green onions or 1 dry onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 1/2 celery
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 2 bell peppers
- 1 kg of fresh tomatoes (or a can of quality tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste (optional, for color enhancement)
- 1 bunch of finely chopped parsley
- 1 bunch of finely chopped dill
- 100 g of noodles or vermicelli
- Salt, pepper, thyme, tarragon, basil (to taste)

Cooking technique:

1. Preparing the vegetables:
Start by peeling and chopping all the vegetables. The beet, carrot, parsnip, celery, onion, garlic, and bell peppers should be cut into large cubes to cook evenly. This is a great opportunity to connect with your ingredients and enjoy their fresh flavors.

2. Boiling the vegetables:
Place all the chopped vegetables in a large pot, add cold water until they are completely covered. Set the pot over medium heat and let it boil. This step is crucial for extracting all the flavors from the vegetables.

3. Pureeing the vegetables:
Once the vegetables are boiled and tender (about 20 minutes), use a blender or a food mill to puree them. Add some of the cooking liquid to achieve a smoother texture. The charm of this soup lies in its consistency, so make sure it is more liquid.

4. Seasoning the soup:
After obtaining a smooth puree, return it to low heat. Add salt, pepper, thyme, tarragon, and basil to taste. Here, you can adjust the flavors according to your preferences. If you feel the soup needs a deeper red note, add a tablespoon of tomato paste.

5. Adding the noodles:
After seasoning the soup, add the noodles or vermicelli. Boil everything for 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked. It is important not to overcook the noodles to avoid ruining their texture.

6. Finishing the soup:
Finally, add the finely chopped parsley and dill. These fresh herbs will add a touch of freshness and flavor.

7. Serving:
Tomato soup is tastier when served slightly cooled. It can be enjoyed either warm or at room temperature, and it is delicious with a slice of toasted bread or homemade croutons.

Practical tips:
- Ingredients: Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes for a richer taste. Quality canned tomatoes are an excellent alternative out of season.
- Greens: You can experiment with other herbs, such as basil or oregano, to achieve different flavors.
- Variations: You can add additional vegetables, such as zucchini or squash, to make the soup even more nutritious.
- Serving: Serve the soup with a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt for an extra creaminess.

Nutritional benefits:
Tomato soup is rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent cardiovascular diseases. The added vegetables provide a generous supply of fiber and essential nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but the taste will be slightly different.
- How can I store the soup? The soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, or it can be frozen for later use.
- What drinks pair well with tomato soup? A dry white wine or a cold herbal tea are excellent options.

I wish you much success in preparing this tomato soup! It is a dish that will not only delight your senses but will also bring a touch of joy to every bowl. Savor each spoonful and do not hesitate to experiment with the ingredients to give it a personal touch!

 Ingredients: A medium-sized beetroot, 2 bunches of green onions or 1 dry onion, 1 carrot, 1 parsnip, a piece of celery, 2 cloves of garlic, 2 bell peppers, 1 kg of fresh or canned tomatoes. If more color is needed, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, finely chopped parsley, finely chopped dill, noodles or pasta, salt, pepper, thyme, tarragon, basil.