Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup That Will Wow Your Guests With Ingredients

Indulge in a refreshing twist on classic culinary delights with our Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup. A summer splash in every bowl, it teems with sun-ripened tomatoes and earthy beets, harmoniously blending into a chilled delicacy.

It’s an invitation to experience nature’s finest produce in a celebration of flavor and color. This cool, vibrant medley invites a pause in the rush of daily life, providing nourishment and enjoyment in equal measure.

Ideal for warm-weather gatherings or tranquil patio moments, this soup is a testament to the simple joy of savoring the season’s bounty.

What Is Chilled Tomato And Beet Soup?

Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup is a refreshing, cold dish perfect for warm weather. This culinary delight combines ripe, juicy tomatoes with earthy beets, blended to create a smooth and flavorful soup. 

Often garnished with fresh herbs or a dollop of cream, it showcases a vibrant color spectrum from deep ruby red to sunset orange.

The unique balance of sweet and savory, coupled with its cooling nature, makes it a standout summer treat that invites you to savor the season’s fresh flavors.

History 

The origins of chilled soups trace back to various cultures, with Spain’s Gazpacho being a prime example. Traditionally tomato-based, Gazpacho was born as a cooling meal for hot Mediterranean summers.

On the other hand, Beetroot starred in Eastern Europe’s Borscht, offering a comforting winter dish. 

Fusing these ingredients into soup is a relatively modern innovation.

Chefs and home cooks seeking new flavors began blending these key ingredients, creating a vibrant and refreshing soup that marries Mediterranean zest with Eastern European heartiness.

Today, it’s a celebrated star of summer menus worldwide.

Interesting Facts 

• Nutritional Powerhouse: The Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup is not only a delightful treat but also a nutritional powerhouse. Tomatoes are a rich source of vitamin C and lycopene, while beets offer an excellent dose of folate and fiber.
• Global Fusion: The soup represents a fusion of culinary traditions, marrying the Mediterranean charm of Gazpacho with the hearty soul of Eastern Europe’s Borscht.
• Seasonal Celebration: This soup allows you to savor the best of summer’s produce, offering a refreshing, nutrient-rich meal ideal for hot weather.
• Color Play: Depending on the ratio of tomatoes to beets, the color of the soup can range from deep ruby red to vibrant sunset orange.
• Versatility: While delicious on its own, the soup’s flavor profile can be easily enhanced with various garnishes such as fresh herbs, a swirl of cream, or crunchy croutons.

What Makes It Special?

The Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup is special due to its unique blend of flavors, global roots, and adaptability to different occasions and palates. 

It combines the sweet acidity of tomatoes with the earthy robustness of beets, creating a harmonious blend that is both refreshing and satisfying.

It is an intersection of culinary traditions, taking inspiration from the Mediterranean and Eastern Europe. 

Its vibrant color makes it an aesthetic delight, sure to impress at gatherings. Moreover, its versatility allows it to be tailored to various dietary preferences and tastes, accommodating additions and garnishes to enhance its allure.

And most importantly, it is a rich source of vitamins and fiber, making it a delicious way to nourish your body.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Small beets (pre-cooked and ready to eat, or fresh)	1 lb
Chicken stock (homemade or low-sodium store bought, or vegetable stock)	5 cups
Ripe tomatoes (cored, halved, seeds squeezed out, roughly chopped)	3 large
Kosher salt	To taste
Fresh black pepper	To taste
Lemon juice	1-2 Tbsp (to taste)
Sour cream	2/3 cup
Chopped chives	2 Tbsp

Ingredient Tips 

Small Beets

• Whether you choose pre-cooked or fresh beets, ensure they’re tender and ready to enrich your soup.
  Pre-cooked beets should be well-drained, while fresh ones need peeling and cooking – boiled, roasted, or steamed to fork-tenderness.

Chicken Stock Or Vegetable Stock

• Homemade stocks impart a fuller flavor, but store-bought options, particularly low-sodium varieties, are convenient substitutes. Watch the sodium levels for off-the-shelf stocks to avoid an overly salty soup.

Ripe Tomatoes

• Select fully ripened tomatoes for superior flavor and texture. A simple trick for seeding: halve the tomatoes and squeeze gently over a sink or bin. Once cored and seeded, chop them roughly before adding to the soup.

Kosher Salt And Fresh Black Pepper

• Season your soup with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the soup’s natural flavors. Remember, a gradual seasoning approach ensures a well-balanced flavor profile.

Lemon Juice

• A tablespoon or two of lemon juice adds a tangy twist to your soup. Adjust this citrus note according to your preference for acidity.

Sour Cream

• Introduce 2/3 cup of sour cream into your soup for a creamy texture and a subtle tang. The quantity can be tweaked depending on how decadently rich you desire your soup to be.

Chopped Chives

• Reserve 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh chives as a garnish. Adding them just before serving introduces a mild, onion-like flavor and a visually appealing color contrast to your bowl of soup.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

The Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup recipe is versatile and allows for various modifications based on your personal preferences or dietary needs.

Here are some ways you can alter the recipe with different ingredients:

• Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers for an extra crunch and flavor.
• Herbs And Spices: To change up the flavor profile, consider adding fresh herbs like basil, mint, or cilantro. For a kick of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes could be a great addition.
• Protein: For a more filling soup, you could add some cooked shrimp, crab, or grilled chicken. For a vegetarian protein boost, consider adding cooked and chilled lentils or chickpeas.
• Dairy-Free Variations: Replace the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut or soy-based sour cream.
• Low-Fat Variations: Substitute sour cream with low-fat yogurt to decrease the fat content without sacrificing the creamy texture.
• Add Grains: Consider adding cooked and chilled quinoa or couscous for a more substantial meal.

Recipe Directions

• If using fresh beets, preheat the oven to 375°F. Scrub the beets and trim the stems down to one-half inch. Wrap the beets individually in foil and place them on a baking sheet.
• Cook the beets in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, depending on their size, or until they are just tender when pierced with a knife tip.
  Remove the beets from the oven and unwrap the foil. Once they are cool enough to handle, cut them into large chunks.
• In a 3-quart or larger stock pot, heat the chicken or vegetable stock over high heat until it begins to shimmer.
  Add the beets and tomatoes to the pot, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
  Cook for 20 minutes, or until the tomatoes begin to collapse.
• Remove the pot from the heat and use an immersion blender (or let the soup cool slightly and puree in a blender in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
• Season the soup to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer the soup to a container or bowl, cover it, and refrigerate for at least two hours until well chilled.
• Just before serving, squeeze in the lemon juice and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  Ladle the chilled soup into bowls and garnish each bowl with a small dollop of sour cream and freshly chopped chives.
• For additional options, consider substituting sour cream with coconut cream for a vegan option, adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra tang, or topping the soup with toasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

The Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup can be easily customized to suit different taste preferences. Here are some variations, add-ons, and toppings you could consider:

Variations

• Creamy Avocado: Blend in a ripe avocado for a creamier texture and a boost of healthy fats.
• Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
• Asian Flair: Incorporate a touch of ginger, lemongrass, or coconut milk for an Asian-inspired variation.

Add-Ons

• Protein Boost: Add cooked and shredded chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Grains: Mix in cooked quinoa or farro to add a nutty flavor and make the soup more filling.
• Greens: Stir in spinach or kale for an added nutritional punch.

Toppings

• Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill can provide a refreshing contrast.
• Nuts And Seeds: Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or almond slivers for a satisfying crunch.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of feta or goat cheese can add a tangy note and a creamy texture.
• Croutons: Homemade croutons can add a delightful crunch and are especially good if you have gluten-free guests.

How Can You Scale The Recipe? (Up Or Down)

Scaling a recipe, either up or down, is relatively straightforward once you understand the basic principles.

Scaling Up

• To increase the quantity, you’ll need to multiply each ingredient by the factor you want to increase.
  For example, if you’re going to double the recipe (scale it up by a factor of two), you’ll need to double the quantity of each ingredient. So, if the recipe calls for 2 tomatoes and you want to double it, you would use four tomatoes.
• Bear in mind, however, that cooking times may also need to be adjusted when scaling up a recipe.
  In general, larger quantities of food will take longer to cook. You’ll also need to ensure that you have a large enough pot to accommodate the larger quantity of soup.

Scaling Down

• Similarly, to scale down the recipe, you would divide the quantity of each ingredient by the factor by which you want to reduce the recipe.
  If you want to halve the recipe, you would use half the quantity of each ingredient.
• However, reducing a recipe can be more complex than just halving each ingredient. Some ingredients, such as spices and seasonings, may need to be reduced by less than half to maintain the flavor of the dish. Similarly, cooking times will typically need to be reduced when cooking smaller quantities.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

The Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup recipe uses a small dollop of sour cream and freshly chopped chives for garnishing.

The sour cream adds a hint of creaminess and tang to the soup, while the chives provide a mild onion-like flavor and a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing.

However, garnishes can be flexible based on personal preference and dietary needs. Here are some other options:

• Fresh Herbs: Besides chives, other herbs like parsley, dill, or basil can be used for garnishing. They add a new, aromatic touch to the soup.
• Croutons: Homemade croutons can provide a delightful crunch and contrast to the smooth soup.
• Nuts And Seeds: Toasted pumpkin seeds or almond slivers can add a nutty flavor and a crunch.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of feta or goat cheese can add a tangy note and a creamy texture.
• Drizzle of Oil: A drizzle of olive oil or a flavored oil like truffle oil can add a depth of flavor.
• Citrus Zest: A little grated lemon or lime zest can provide a refreshing, citrusy twist.

Can I Make Chilled Tomato And Beet Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

You absolutely can prepare Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup in a slow cooker or an Instant Pot. Here are simplified instructions for both methods:

Slow Cooker Method

• If using fresh beets, peel and chop them into chunks. Add them to the slow cooker along with the chopped tomatoes.
• Pour in your chosen stock. Cover and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or until the beets are tender.
• Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup in the slow cooker (or transfer to a regular blender in batches, being careful with the hot soup).
• Season with salt and pepper, then chill in the refrigerator before serving.

Instant Pot Method

• If using fresh beets, peel and chop them into chunks. Add the beets and chopped tomatoes to the Instant Pot.
• Pour in your chosen stock. Secure the lid and set the valve to a sealing position. Pressure cook on high for about 15 minutes, then allow a natural pressure release.
• Once the pressure is released, puree the soup using an immersion blender (or transfer to a regular blender in batches, being careful with the hot soup).
• Season with salt and pepper, then chill in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

The choice between using store-bought broth or making your own largely depends on your personal preference, available time, and dietary needs.

• Store-Bought Broth

This is a convenient option, especially if you need more time. It’s ready to use and can help you get dinner on the table quickly. There are also many varieties available, including low-sodium and organic options.

However, it’s worth noting that store-bought broths can sometimes contain additives or preservatives, and the flavor might not be as rich or complex as homemade.

Always check the label if you have specific dietary requirements or are monitoring your intake of certain ingredients.

• Homemade Broth

If you have the time and ingredients, homemade broth often produces a richer, deeper flavor than store-bought varieties.

You have full control over what goes into it, allowing you to avoid preservatives, control the sodium content, and tailor the flavors to your liking.

Making your own broth can be more time-consuming, but you can make it in large batches and freeze it in smaller portions for later use, which can be a great time-saver for future meals.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup?

You can definitely experiment with different types of meat, fish, pasta, or vegetables in the Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup.

However, keep in mind that this is a chilled soup, and some ingredients might not be as appetizing when served cold. Here are a few suggestions:

• Meat/Fish: Smoked salmon or shredded chicken could be a nice addition. Add them as a garnish just before serving so they remain fresh and do not overpower the soup’s flavor.
• Pasta: Small types of pasta like orzo or ditalini could work. Cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup just before serving to avoid becoming too soft.
• Vegetables: Cucumbers, bell peppers, or avocados could add a refreshing crunch. They can either be blended into the soup or finely chopped and added as a garnish.
• Other additions: Consider white beans or chickpeas for a protein boost. Fresh herbs like basil or mint could also add an interesting flavor twist.

What Are The Tips And Tricks For Making Soup?

Making a delicious soup requires a blend of good quality ingredients, adequate seasoning, and proper cooking techniques. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make your soup-making endeavor successful:

Prepping Tips

• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh herbs, ripe vegetables, and a flavorful broth can make a big difference.
• Prep Ahead: Chop all your ingredients before you start cooking. This will allow you to focus on cooking and ensure that everything gets added at the right time.
• Size Matters: Cut ingredients into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

Cooking Tips

• Layer Flavors: Start by sautéing aromatic vegetables like onions, garlic, and celery to form a flavor base for your soup.
• Season Gradually: Don’t add all your seasoning at once. It’s best to gradually add salt and adjust the flavor as the soup cooks.
• Use The Right Heat: Simmer your soup gently. Boiling can cause the ingredients to break down too quickly, making the broth cloudy.
• Blend Carefully: If blending your soup, ensure it has cooled a bit before blending to prevent accidents. Also, do not fill the blender too full – hot soup can expand and cause the blender lid to pop off.

Chilled Tomato And Beet Soup Nutritional Values

Indulge in the refreshing flavors of chilled tomato and beet soup while benefiting from its nutritional values. Packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and low in fat, it offers a healthy and delicious option for a balanced meal.

What Are The Total Calories In The Soup?

The calorie content of your Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup would depend on the specific amounts and types of ingredients used.

To give you a rough estimate, let’s consider the basic ingredients:

• Beets: A medium-sized beet has about 60 calories.
• Tomatoes: A medium-sized tomato has around 22 calories.
• Chicken Or Vegetable Stock: This can vary greatly depending on the brand and type, but on average, one cup has about 20-30 calories.
• Sour Cream: One tablespoon has approximately 23 calories.

So, on an average, a bowl of tomato and beet soup can give 200 – 300 kcal of calories. Further changes are subject to the ingredients you add in the soup. 

What Are The Dietary Restrictions Of Chilled Tomato And Beet Soup?

The Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup can accommodate various dietary restrictions.

Still, it’s always important to check the ingredients list for any potential allergens or ingredients that may not fit within specific diets. Here’s a basic rundown:

• Gluten-Free: This soup should be gluten-free if you use a gluten-free stock. Always double-check labels to make sure.
• Dairy-Free/Vegan: The sour cream garnish contains dairy. To make this soup dairy-free or vegan, use a non-dairy sour cream alternative or omit the sour cream altogether. Also, ensure you use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegan version.
• Low-Carb/Keto: Beets and tomatoes do contain carbs, so this soup may not be suitable for a strict low-carb or ketogenic diet. However, in moderate portions, it can fit within a more liberal low-carb plan.
• Nut-Free: This soup is naturally nut-free unless garnished with nuts or prepared with a broth containing nuts. Always check labels to make sure.
• Paleo: To make this soup Paleo-friendly, you would need to replace the sour cream containing dairy. A good substitute could be coconut cream.
• Whole30: Similar to Paleo, you’d need to replace the sour cream for this soup to be Whole30 compliant. Coconut cream or omitting it altogether could work.

What Are The Health Benefits Of Chilled Tomato And Beet Soup?

Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup is a nutritious dish packed with health benefits thanks to its key ingredients: tomatoes and beets. Here are some potential health benefits:

• Rich In Nutrients: Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants abound in beets and tomatoes. Fiber, folate (vitamin B9), manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C are all abundant in beets. Vitamin C, potassium, vitamin K, and folate are all abundant in tomatoes.
• Heart Health: Both tomatoes and beets’ fiber, potassium, and antioxidants support heart health. The antioxidant lycopene found in tomatoes has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, while potassium can help lower blood pressure.
• Boosts Digestive Health: Beets and tomatoes are high in fiber, which helps to improve digestive health by giving stools more volume and encouraging regular bowel movements.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Tomatoes and beets both contain anti-inflammatory substances. This can aid in reducing bodily inflammation, which is linked to several chronic disorders.
• Hydration: Due to its high water content, this chilled soup can help you stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
• Low Calorie: This soup is a fantastic choice for those attempting to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight because it is low in calories.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Soup Lower In Sodium? 

Reducing the sodium content in your Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup is pretty straightforward. Here are a few strategies:

• Choose Low-Sodium Or No-Sodium-Added Broth: Commercially available broths can vary significantly in sodium content. Opt for a low-sodium or no-sodium-added version. You could also make your own broth from scratch, giving you total control over the amount of salt added.
• Watch Your Seasonings: Be mindful of the amount of salt you add during cooking. It’s easier to add more salt later if needed, but you can’t remove it once it’s in the pot.
• Fresh Over Canned Ingredients: Fresh vegetables typically contain less sodium than canned ones. Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones, for example. If you need canned veggies, look for low-sodium versions or rinse them thoroughly before use.
• Add More Herbs And Spices: To make up for any perceived loss of flavor due to less salt, increase the amount of herbs and spices. These can add a lot of flavor without contributing to sodium content.

How Can I Make Soup Lower In Sugar?

Making your Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup lower in sugar can be tricky since both tomatoes and beets contain natural sugars. However, there are a few things you could consider:

• Choose Low-Sugar Varieties Of Tomatoes And Beets: Some varieties of tomatoes and beets have lower sugar content than others. For instance, Roma or plum tomatoes tend to have less sugar than cherry tomatoes.
• Adjust The Ratio Of Ingredients: You can reduce the number of beets or tomatoes and add more low-sugar vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or zucchini to maintain volume while decreasing the overall sugar content.
• Avoid Adding Sweeteners: Some recipes may call for added sugar or sweeteners to balance the flavors. For a lower-sugar version, you can omit these or look for natural, lower-glycemic alternatives.
• Use Sour Cream Wisely: Sour cream can contain some sugar, so opt for a sugar-free version if available, or use it sparingly.
• Balance With Acid: Adding a bit more lemon juice might help cut the natural sweetness of the vegetables without adding any sugars.

How To Serve The Chilled Tomato And Beet Soup Best?

Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in a number of ways. Here are a few suggestions to make the most out of your serving:

• Appropriate dishware: Serve this vibrant soup in clear glass or white bowls to show off its stunning color.
• Garnish: A dollop of sour cream or a swirl of yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or dill, and a few croutons or a drizzle of olive oil on top can add an appealing contrast of colors and textures.
• Pairing: This soup pairs well with a fresh garden salad, crusty bread, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal. It also works beautifully as a refreshing starter or a light entree.
• Temperature: Ensure the soup is well chilled before serving. You can keep it in the fridge until the moment you’re ready to serve.
• Wine Pairing: If you’re serving the soup as part of a sophisticated meal, it pairs well with a crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé.
• Presentation: For an extra touch, you could serve the soup in shot glasses or small mason jars as a fun appetizer or at a party.

What Are The Perfect Side Dishes For The Soup?

Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup has a vibrant, refreshing flavor that pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Crusty Bread: A piece of crusty bread or a warm baguette is a classic soup accompaniment and would go well with this dish. It can be used to mop up any leftover soup in the bowl.
• Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses, particularly those with strong flavors, can complement the tangy and sweet notes in the soup.
• Salads: A light, crisp salad would be an excellent counterpoint to this soup. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, a cucumber salad, or a Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil would work well.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a more filling option, a grilled cheese sandwich would be perfect. You could try different types of cheese to see which you prefer.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, can add another dimension to the meal and enhance the soup’s natural sweetness.
• Quinoa Or Couscous Salad: A chilled grain salad made from quinoa or couscous with a mix of vegetables and a light dressing would pair nicely with the soup.

How Long Can We Store The Soup?

Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing other flavors from the fridge.

If you want to keep the soup for a longer period, you can freeze it. Properly stored, it will maintain the best quality for about 2-3 months in the freezer, but it will remain safe to eat beyond that time.

To freeze the soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion.

To serve, defrost overnight in the fridge and then stir well before serving cold. If the texture changes a bit upon defrosting, a quick blend can help restore its smoothness.

Can I Make Soup In Advance?

You can make the Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup in advance, and in fact, it’s a perfect dish for this.

Preparing it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld together, and the chilling process can take a few hours, so making it ahead of time ensures it will be perfectly cool when you’re ready to serve it.

Here’s how you can do it:

• Follow the recipe to make the soup, then let it cool to room temperature.
• Once cooled, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it.
• The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• When you’re ready to serve the soup, give it a good stir, adjust the seasonings if necessary, add the lemon juice, and serve it with your chosen garnishes.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

Leftover Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup can be repurposed in several creative ways to ensure nothing goes to waste.

You can use it as a flavorful base for a pasta sauce or a stew, adding a dash of herbs or spices for an extra flavor kick. 

Alternatively, try it as a dressing for a hearty vegetable or grain salad. If you’re up for experimenting, use it as a unique marinade for chicken or fish, letting the proteins soak up the vibrant flavors. 

For a quick snack, consider it as a dip for crudité or pita chips. Remember, the key with leftovers is to view them as a base for new culinary creations.

Special Tools Needed & Equipment

Cooking Chilled Tomato and Beet Soup requires a few essential kitchen tools. While specific requirements may vary by recipe, here are some of the typical tools you may need:

• Knife And Cutting Board: For chopping the vegetables.
• Soup Pot Or Large Saucepan: To cook the soup. It should be large enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
• Oven (If using fresh beets): To roast the beets until tender.
• Aluminum Foil (If using fresh beets): To wrap the beets for roasting.
• Immersion Blender Or Regular Blender: This is crucial for puréeing the soup to the desired consistency. An immersion blender allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot, while a regular blender may require blending in batches.
• Ladle: For serving the soup.
• Airtight Container: A good airtight container is essential if you’re preparing the soup in advance or storing leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I use canned beets for this recipe?

Yes, canned beets can be used as a time-saving option. Be sure to drain them well before using, and be aware that they might alter their flavor slightly due to the pickling process they undergo.

Can I use other types of citrus instead of lemon?

Absolutely! While lemon is a common choice, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like lime or even orange for a different flavor profile.

My soup has separated after chilling. Is it still good?

Yes, it’s still good. Some separation can occur when the soup is chilled. Just give it a good stir or a quick blitz with the blender before serving.

Can I heat the soup if I don’t want it chilled?

Sure, you can. While this recipe is intended to be served chilled, it’s still delicious served warm or hot. Just make sure to adjust your seasonings accordingly, as flavors can change with temperature.

What type of tomatoes work best for this soup?

Any variety of ripe, flavorful tomatoes will work well in this soup. However, using a mixture of different types can add a depth of flavor. Just be sure they’re ripe to ensure the sweetest, most flavorful soup.