Chill Out This Summer: Refreshing Cold Tomato Soup Recipes to Beat the Heat!

As the summer sun blazes overhead, it becomes essential to stay refreshed and hydrated. One delicious way to do this is by enjoying a cool bowl of tomato soup, perfect for those hot afternoons. Whether enjoyed as a starter, a light lunch, or a chilled appetizer at a summer gathering, the vibrant flavors and cooling properties of cold tomato soup will help you beat the heat. Here are two refreshing recipes, along with essential preparation tips to get you started.

Recipe Overview

Difficulty	Prep Time	Cooking Time	Total Time	Servings
Easy	10 minutes	0 minutes	10 minutes	4

Classic Cold Tomato Soup

Ingredients

• • 6 ripe tomatoes, chopped

• • 1 cucumber, peeled and diced

• • 1 bell pepper, chopped (red or yellow for color)

• • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

• • 2 cloves garlic, minced

• • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

• • 3 cups vegetable stock

• • 2 tablespoons olive oil

• • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• • Salt and pepper to taste

Execution

1. 1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Add in the minced garlic and basil leaves, mixing well to ensure an even distribution.

1. 1. Blend the Mixture: Add the vegetable stock, olive oil, and red wine vinegar to the vegetable mix. Using a blender, process until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only until your desired consistency is achieved.

1. 1. Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing to combine. Adjust seasoning based on your preference.

1. 1. Chill the Soup: Transfer the blended soup to a large bowl or pitcher and cover it. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to chill completely.

1. 1. Serve: Once chilled, serve the soup in bowls and garnish with extra basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

Additional Tips

• • For a twist, blend in a couple of roasted red peppers for added flavor.

• • Drizzle with balsamic reduction before serving for a gourmet touch.

• • Pair with crusty bread or bruschetta for an even more satisfying meal.

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Recipe Overview

Difficulty	Prep Time	Cooking Time	Total Time	Servings
Medium	15 minutes	30 minutes	45 minutes	6

Gazpacho with Avocado

Ingredients

• • 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped

• • 1 cucumber, peeled and diced

• • 1 green bell pepper, chopped

• • 1 red onion, chopped

• • 2 cloves garlic, minced

• • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• • 1/4 cup olive oil

• • 1 teaspoon cumin

• • 3 cups tomato juice

• • 1 avocado, diced

• • Salt and pepper to taste

Execution

1. 1. Prepare the Veggies: As before, combine the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and garlic in a large bowl.

1. 1. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, and salt and pepper to taste.

1. 1. Combine Everything: Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture, stirring to combine. Slowly add the tomato juice while mixing.

1. 1. Blend the Soup: Using a blender, blend the mixture until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier style, blend only partially.

1. 1. Refrigerate: Pour the gazpacho into airtight containers and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill.

1. 1. Serve: Just before serving, add the diced avocado to the gazpacho. Ladle it into bowls and provide additional diced veggies for garnish if desired.

Additional Tips

• • Consider adding a bit of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

• • For a creamier texture, blend in some avocado beforehand.

• • Use heirloom tomatoes for a more colorful and flavorful gazpacho.

With these refreshing cold tomato soup recipes, keeping cool this summer is both easy and delicious. These soups highlight the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes, complemented by fresh vegetables, making each bowl a delightful treat. Enjoy the cool, vibrant flavors while you relax under the sun!