Tomato soup with croutons
Tomato soup with croutons – a delicious and comforting recipe
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Welcome to the world of delicious flavors! Today we will prepare together a tomato soup with croutons, a simple and quick recipe, ideal for any time of the day. This soup is not just a classic dish, but also a warm hug on a chilly day. Tomatoes, an essential ingredient in our kitchen, have been used for centuries in various dishes, bringing a splash of flavor to every home. Let's begin our culinary adventure!
Necessary ingredients:
- 1 can of tomatoes in tomato juice (about 400 g)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 100 ml tomato juice (for an extra intensity)
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 1 teaspoon of olive oil
- Croutons (for serving)
- A sprig of fresh thyme (or dried, as preferred)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step by step to the perfect soup:
1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables well. Cut the onions into small cubes and crush the garlic with a knife. The red bell pepper should be seeded and cut into small pieces. The smaller the vegetables are cut, the more evenly they will cook and combine.
2. Boiling the vegetables: In a medium pot, add 1 teaspoon of olive oil and place it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and the flavors begin to release. This is the stage that will give your soup a wonderful base of flavor.
3. Adding the tomatoes and bell pepper: Add the canned tomatoes, tomato juice, and diced red bell pepper. Mix everything well. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that not only enhances flavor but also provides important nutritional benefits.
4. Seasoning: Now is the time to add thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. The thyme will add a subtle aroma and perfectly complement the tomatoes. Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend harmoniously.
5. Blending the soup: After the soup has boiled well, it's time to blend it. Use an immersion blender to achieve a smooth and creamy texture. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender, but be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid accidents.
6. Serving: Once you have a smooth soup, taste it and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Serve the soup hot, garnished with crispy croutons and a drizzle of olive oil. The croutons add a delicious texture and a pleasant contrast to the creamy soup.
Serving suggestions and variations:
- Ingredient variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or celery, to enrich the soup. Additionally, a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt at serving can transform the soup into a true feast.
- Recommended drinks: This soup pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade for a refreshing touch.
- Useful tips: If you want a spicier soup, you can add chili flakes during cooking or even a few drops of Tabasco sauce when serving.
Nutritional benefits:
This tomato soup is not only tasty but also healthy! Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants, making them excellent for skin health and the immune system. Additionally, consuming vegetables like onion and garlic can help maintain cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! It is recommended to blanch them and peel them for a smoother texture.
2. How can I make the soup thicker? You can add a potato or zucchini, boiled together with the other vegetables, to achieve a denser consistency.
3. How can I store the soup? The soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze individual portions for a quick snack on busy days.
Conclusion:
Tomato soup with croutons is a simple yet flavorful dish that will surely delight everyone who tastes it. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main course, this soup will warm you up and bring a splash of joy in every spoonful. Don't forget to experiment with the ingredients and add a touch of creativity to your kitchen! Enjoy!
Ingredients: 1 can of tomatoes in tomato juice, 1 red bell pepper, 100ml tomato juice, 2 onions, 3 cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon olive oil, croutons, 1 sprig of thyme
