Chilled Tomato and Basil Soup

French · Summer · 60 min · Serves 4 · By Lesapor Test Kitchen

This French-inspired chilled tomato soup is perfect for a hot summer day. Combining the freshness of ripe tomatoes with aromatic basil, it provides a comforting yet refreshing experience. Serve it as an elegant starter or a light lunch.

Ingredients

• Ripe tomatoes, cored and quartered
• Fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Extra virgin olive oil, preferably specialty
• Red wine vinegar
• Sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Chilled water

Method

1. In a blender, combine the quartered tomatoes, basil leaves, minced garlic, and chilled water. Blend until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a large bowl, pressing down to extract as much liquid as possible.
3. Whisk in the olive oil, red wine vinegar, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate the soup for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to chill thoroughly.
5. Before serving, stir the soup and ladle into bowls. Garnish with additional basil leaves.