Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that's as refreshing as a summer breeze? Dive into the world of "Very Cold Tomato Soup with Basil," where the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil come together in a delightful Italian-inspired treat. Perfect for hot days or as a light appetizer, this no-cook recipe takes just 10 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this stunningly simple dish that’s bursting with freshness—let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 cucumber, peeled
- 1 bell pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash all fresh produce thoroughly under cool running water. Pat dry with clean kitchen towels.
- Core and roughly chop the ripe tomatoes, removing any bruised or damaged areas. Place chopped tomatoes in a large mixing bowl.
- Peel the cucumber and dice it into small, uniform cubes. Add to the mixing bowl with tomatoes.
- Remove seeds from the bell pepper, then finely chop it into small pieces. Add to the tomato and cucumber mixture.
- Gently tear fresh basil leaves into small pieces, releasing their aromatic oils. Sprinkle over the vegetable mixture.
- Drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar over the vegetables. This will help enhance the flavors and create a smooth base for the soup.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix all ingredients gently but thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy, approximately 1-2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar to balance flavors.
- Cover the soup and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and soup to become very cold.
- Before serving, give the soup a quick stir. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve in chilled bowls for maximum refreshment, especially on warm days.
Tips
- Choose the Best Tomatoes: For the most flavorful soup, select large, ripe tomatoes that are in season. Heirloom varieties can add a unique taste and color.
- Prep in Advance: To save time, you can wash and chop all your vegetables ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you're ready to blend.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other herbs like parsley or chives for an extra layer of flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also give your soup a spicy kick!
- Chill for Perfection: Allowing the soup to chill for at least 30 minutes not only enhances the flavors but also ensures it’s refreshingly cold when served.
- Garnish Creatively: Elevate your presentation by garnishing with additional basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, or even croutons for some crunch.
- Serve in Style: For a chic touch, serve the soup in chilled bowls or glasses. It’s a simple way to make your dish look gourmet!
- Adjust to Your Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasoning. Taste as you go, and adjust salt, pepper, or vinegar to suit your palate. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a cold soup that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 60kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
