Name: Cold Tomato Fennel Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 cups chopped tomatoes (Fresh ripe tomatoes work best.); 1 cup diced fennel; 1 tbsp olive oil (Extra virgin olive oil is recommended.); 1 tbsp fresh basil (Chopped for garnish.)

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Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m always on the lookout for refreshing delights like this Cold Tomato Fennel Soup! It’s the perfect appetizer to brighten up any meal, especially on those sweltering summer days. Picture this: you’re lounging outside, the sun is shining, and you take a spoonful of this vibrant soup. The sweet, juicy tomatoes pair beautifully with the subtle anise flavor of fresh fennel, creating a harmony that’s simply irresistible.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up—just a quick sauté, a blend, and a chill, and you’re ready to impress friends and family! I remember enjoying this soup at a Mediterranean café, and now, it’s a staple in my home. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming of it long after summer fades. So, let’s dive into the world of Cold Tomato Fennel Soup together!

Ingredients List

To make this delightful Cold Tomato Fennel Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 cups chopped fresh ripe tomatoes (the juicier, the better!)
1 cup diced fennel (don’t skip this, it adds a lovely flavor!)

For garnish, grab:

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (it makes a world of difference)
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (for that aromatic touch)

How to Prepare Cold Tomato Fennel Soup

Step 1: Cook the Base

First things first, let’s get the base going! In a medium soup pot, combine the 4 cups of chopped fresh ripe tomatoes and 1 cup of diced fennel. Place the pot over medium heat and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes. You want those tomatoes to break down and mingle with the fennel, releasing all those wonderful flavors. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is fragrant and bubbling away!

Step 2: Blend the Mixture

Once your base has cooked, it’s time to transfer it to a blender. Carefully pour the warm mixture into the blender (watch out for splatters!). Blend it until smooth and creamy—this part is so satisfying! After that, pop the blended soup into the refrigerator to chill for at least an hour. Trust me, the flavors will deepen as it cools, making each spoonful even more delightful!

Step 3: Serve the Soup

Finally, it’s time to serve up this refreshing Cold Tomato Fennel Soup! Grab your chilled bowls and ladle in the soup. Drizzle a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil on top for that rich finish and sprinkle with the chopped fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. Your guests will be in awe of this vibrant, delicious dish. Enjoy every spoonful!

FAQ Section

Can I make Cold Tomato Fennel Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making this Cold Tomato Fennel Soup a day in advance. The flavors really develop and deepen in the fridge overnight, making it even tastier when you serve it. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh!

What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

There are so many fun ways to customize this soup! You could add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or toss in a handful of fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra freshness. If you want a creamier texture, consider stirring in a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of coconut milk right before serving. The possibilities are endless!

How long can I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), you can keep the soup in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, give it a gentle stir and serve it chilled. You can also add a little drizzle of olive oil to freshen it up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this soup in no time!
Refreshing Flavor: The sweet tomatoes and aromatic fennel create a light and invigorating taste that’s perfect for summer.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and low in calories, this soup is a guilt-free appetizer that your body will thank you for!
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer, a light lunch, or even a side dish; it fits perfectly into any meal!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it a day in advance for even richer flavors—less stress on the day of your gathering!

Equipment Needed

To make this delightful Cold Tomato Fennel Soup, you’ll need a couple of essential kitchen tools:

Blender: A good quality blender is crucial for achieving that smooth, creamy texture.
Soup Pot: A medium-sized soup pot for cooking the tomatoes and fennel together.

These two pieces of equipment will ensure your soup comes out perfectly every time! Happy cooking!

Tips for Success

Ready to make your Cold Tomato Fennel Soup the best it can be? Here are some tried-and-true tips that I’ve picked up along the way:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ripe tomatoes are the star of this dish, so don’t skimp! Look for tomatoes that are fragrant and slightly soft to the touch. The more flavorful your tomatoes, the better your soup will taste!
Chill Time is Key: Don’t rush the chilling process! Allowing the soup to chill for at least an hour (or even longer) lets the flavors meld beautifully. If you can, make it the night before—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and be bold with seasoning! A pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper can elevate the flavors immensely. Sometimes I even add a splash of lemon juice for an extra zing!
Garnish Generously: When serving, don’t hold back on the garnishes. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil make a world of difference. They not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful visual touch!
Experiment with Texture: If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of the mixture and leave the rest as is. This gives you a delightful contrast between smooth and textured bites!

Keep these tips in mind, and your Cold Tomato Fennel Soup will be a hit every time! Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of Cold Tomato Fennel Soup (serves 4):

Calories: 150
Fat: 12g
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 100mg
Potassium: 500mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Vitamin A: 1500 IU
Vitamin C: 30mg
Calcium: 50mg
Iron: 1mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy this nutritious and delicious soup guilt-free!

Serving Suggestions

This Cold Tomato Fennel Soup is a delightful starter, but it can easily shine as part of a complete meal! Here are some tasty options to serve alongside:

Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread or a baguette is perfect for dipping. It complements the soup beautifully and adds a satisfying texture.
Simple Side Salad: A light, mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the flavors of the soup. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumber for extra crunch!
Grilled Shrimp or Fish: For a heartier pairing, consider serving grilled shrimp or a light fish fillet seasoned with herbs. The fresh flavors will harmonize wonderfully with the soup.
Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses, like goat cheese or fresh mozzarella, can add a creamy contrast. Pair with some olives for a Mediterranean touch!
Roasted Vegetables: Serve a side of roasted seasonal vegetables drizzled with olive oil. The caramelized flavors will round out the meal and make it feel extra special.

These options will not only enhance your Cold Tomato Fennel Soup experience but also create a delightful spread that’s sure to impress your guests! For more delicious recipes, check out my Pinterest page.