Creamy tomato soup

Creamy Tomato Soup

Are you dreaming of a creamy tomato soup that delights your taste buds and brings a smile to your face? Then you are in the right place! This simple and delicious recipe will not only pamper your senses but also bring a splash of good mood, thanks to the intense flavors of fresh vegetables and tomato juice. Perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends, this creamy soup can be adapted to your preferences.

Total time: 50 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 medium zucchini
- 2 medium potatoes
- 3 carrots
- 1 onion
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for a sweeter flavor)
- 1 liter of tomato juice (preferably homemade, but store-bought is also good)
- 100 g of homemade noodles (or store-bought if you don't have time to make them)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 50 ml of olive oil (or sunflower oil, depending on your preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional spices: dried basil, oregano, or ground chili for an extra flavor boost

Preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling and cubing the vegetables. The carrots, potatoes, and zucchini should be cut evenly to cook uniformly. The onion and bell pepper should be finely chopped to blend perfectly into the soup.

2. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and aromatic. This step will enhance the flavor of your soup. Then, add the chopped carrots, potatoes, and zucchini, mixing well.

3. Adding water: Pour about 1.5 liters of water into the pot so that the vegetables are completely covered. Put the lid on and let it simmer over medium heat until the vegetables are tender. You can check if the carrot is cooked easily, as it is the hardest to cook.

4. Blending the vegetables: Once the vegetables are cooked, use an immersion blender (or a regular blender) to puree the cooked vegetables until you achieve a smooth paste. If the soup is too thick for your taste, you can add a bit of the liquid in which the vegetables were cooked.

5. Completing the soup: Pour the obtained paste back into the pot with the soup and add the tomato juice. Mix well and let it simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes. You can now add the spices (salt, pepper, and any other preferred spices) to customize your soup.

6. Adding the noodles: Once the soup has simmered, add the homemade noodles and let it boil for 10 minutes or until they are cooked. If using store-bought noodles, follow the cooking instructions on the package.

7. Serving: Once the noodles are ready, take the soup off the heat and add the finely chopped parsley for an extra freshness.

8. Croutons: You can serve the creamy tomato soup with crunchy croutons that will add a pleasant texture and contrast in flavor. You can quickly make croutons from toasted bread by cutting it into cubes and frying it in a little oil with garlic and herbs.

Practical tips:

- Ingredient selection: Choose fresh, seasonal vegetables to get the best flavors. Similarly, the tomato juice can be made at home from fresh tomatoes for an authentic taste.
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as celery or pumpkin, to create different versions of the soup. You can also use sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamier consistency.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, but make sure to thaw them before use.
- How can I make the soup spicier? Add a fresh chili pepper or a bit of ground chili during cooking.
- How can I store the soup? You can keep it in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze individual portions for a quick meal in the coming days.

Nutritional benefits:

This creamy tomato soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and the vegetables provide a significant amount of vitamins and minerals. Additionally, the noodles offer healthy carbohydrates, and parsley is a good source of vitamin K.

This creamy tomato soup recipe will surely become a family favorite. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also brings a touch of warmth and comfort on colder days. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad and a slice of toasted bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: What you need for 4 servings - 1 zucchini - 2 potatoes - 3 carrots - 1 onion - 1 bell pepper - 1 liter of tomato juice - homemade noodles - 1 bunch of parsley - 50 ml of oil - spices