Tomato Dill Chilled Soup

Introduction

Welcome to the culinary world of refreshing, vibrant, and elegantly simple dishes. Today, we delve into a classic yet exquisite recipe that celebrates the bounty of summer produce and the finesse of quick, no-cook preparations: the Chilled Tomato and Dill Soup. As featured on the Love With Recipes platform, this dish embodies the perfect harmony of ripe tomatoes, aromatic dill, and creamy sour cream, all served chilled to invigorate your palate during warmer months or whenever a light, flavorful starter is desired. Its origins are rooted in Mediterranean and Eastern European culinary traditions, where fresh herbs and seasonal vegetables form the backbone of many delightful recipes. This soup is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, making it ideal for casual family dinners, elegant summer luncheons, or as a refreshing appetizer at gatherings. Its vivid color, fresh aroma, and silky texture promise a sensory experience that awakens the senses and leaves you craving more.

Time

Preparation Time

5 minutes

Cooking Time

0 minutes (no cook)

Total Time

Approximately 10 minutes, including chilling time

Needed Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling water, if peeling tomatoes)
• Slotted spoon or tongs (to remove tomatoes from boiling water)
• Cutting board
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Small bowl (for ice water bath)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Food processor or blender
• Mixing bowl
• Refrigerator
• Ladle
• Serving bowls
• Garnishing tools (optional, for herbs or additional toppings)

Tags

• Vegetable
• No Cook
• Chilled Soup
• Summer Recipe
• Quick & Easy
• Low Calorie
• Fresh Herbs
• Healthy
• Vegetarian
• Gluten-Free

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 4 generous servings, making it perfect for small gatherings or family meals. Each serving is approximately 1 cup (240 ml), suitable for a light starter or a refreshing main dish during hot weather.

Difficulty Level

Beginner friendly. The process involves simple techniques such as boiling tomatoes for peeling, assembling ingredients in a food processor, and chilling—all straightforward steps that require minimal culinary experience.

Allergen Information

• Contains: Dairy (sour cream)
• Potential Allergens: Milk (dairy), possibly soy (if sour cream contains soy derivatives), and herbs (dill) in some cases.

For those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance, sour cream can be replaced with plant-based alternatives such as coconut yogurt or cashew cream, ensuring the dish remains vegan-friendly and allergen-free.

Dietary Preference

• Vegetarian
• Gluten-Free (if no gluten-containing ingredients are added)
• Vegan (with dairy substitute)

Course

Appetizer / Starter

Cuisine

Mediterranean / Eastern European / Contemporary

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Start by selecting ripe, juicy tomatoes. To peel them easily, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the tomatoes to the boiling water using a slotted spoon or tongs, ensuring they are submerged completely. Let them blanch for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the skin begins to loosen. Immediately transfer the tomatoes to an ice water bath to halt the cooking process and facilitate peeling. Once cooled, gently peel off the skins, starting from the stem end. Removing the skins helps achieve a smooth, velvety texture in your soup and enhances the overall presentation.

Step 2: Process the Ingredients

In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the peeled tomatoes, sour cream, chopped green onion, and freshly chopped dill. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse a few times to retain some tomato pieces. For a completely smooth consistency, process until the mixture is silky and homogeneous. During processing, occasionally scrape down the sides of the bowl or blender to ensure even blending. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary—adding a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the flavors further.

Step 3: Chill the Soup

Transfer the blended soup into a mixing bowl or directly into serving bowls. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and place in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more harmonious and refreshing taste profile. This step is crucial for a cold soup, especially if you plan to serve it during warm weather or as part of a summer menu.

Step 4: Serve

Once adequately chilled, give the soup a gentle stir. Ladle the soup into individual bowls, garnishing with extra dill or green onion if desired. For an added visual appeal, you may drizzle a little extra sour cream or add a sprig of dill on top. Serve immediately, accompanied by crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Preparation Tips

• Tomato selection: Use vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes for optimal flavor. If tomatoes are out of season, canned high-quality plum tomatoes can be substituted, but fresh will always deliver a superior taste.
• Peeling technique: The boiling water method simplifies peeling, but if you prefer, you can use a sharp paring knife to score the skin and peel manually.
• Herb substitution: Dill is traditional, but parsley or basil can be used for different flavor nuances.
• Serving temperature: Ensure the soup is thoroughly chilled before serving for the most refreshing experience.
• Adjusting consistency: If the soup is too thick, thin with a splash of cold vegetable broth or water. If too thin, add a bit more sour cream or blend in additional peeled tomatoes.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Enhance flavor: Add a splash of good quality olive oil or a dash of balsamic vinegar before serving to deepen the flavor profile.
• Herb freshness: For maximum aroma, add herbs just before blending and avoid over-processing to preserve their fresh flavor.
• Presentation: Serve in clear glass bowls or cups to showcase the vibrant red color and garnished with fresh herbs for visual appeal.
• Make ahead: This soup can be prepared a day in advance, allowing the flavors to develop further. Just give it a gentle stir before serving.

Add-ons

• Crumbled feta or goat cheese on top
• Sliced cherry tomatoes or cucumber for added texture
• Toasted croutons or breadsticks
• Drizzle of flavored olive oil or balsamic reduction
• Fresh herbs like basil or parsley for variation

Side Dishes

• Crusty French baguette or sourdough bread
• Light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette
• Grilled vegetables or vegetable skewers
• Cheese platter with assorted cheeses and fruits

Improvements

• Incorporate roasted garlic for added depth
• Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to brighten the flavors
• Use heirloom or heirloom-style tomatoes for enhanced color and complexity
• Blend in a small amount of roasted red peppers for sweetness and vibrancy
• Experiment with different herbs such as basil, parsley, or chervil to customize flavor profiles

Save and Store

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, cover tightly and consume within this period to maintain freshness. The soup may thicken upon refrigeration; stir in a little cold water or additional sour cream to restore the desired consistency before serving. Do not freeze, as dairy-based soups tend to separate and lose texture when frozen and thawed.

FAQ

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely. Replace the sour cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt, cashew cream, or blended silken tofu. This substitution maintains creaminess while adhering to vegan dietary preferences.

Is it necessary to peel the tomatoes?

Peeling tomatoes enhances the smoothness of the soup and prevents a grainy texture. However, if you prefer a rustic style, you can skip this step and blend the tomatoes with skins on. Just be aware that the texture will be slightly different.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better after chilling for several hours or overnight. Prepare it a day in advance, keep refrigerated, and stir well before serving. Just adjust seasonings if necessary after tasting.

What variations can I try?

Experiment with different herbs such as basil, parsley, or chervil. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for brightness. Incorporating roasted vegetables or a dash of hot sauce can add depth and spice.

Conclusion

This Chilled Tomato and Dill Soup exemplifies the elegance of simplicity and freshness in culinary creation. Its vibrant colors, aromatic herbs, and creamy texture make it a standout dish for warm weather or anytime you crave a light, nutritious, and flavorful starter. Its quick preparation time, minimal equipment, and flexibility with ingredients make it a staple for home chefs seeking to impress effortlessly. Whether served at a casual family gathering or an elegant summer brunch, this soup promises to delight and refresh your senses. Remember, the key to perfecting this dish lies in selecting ripe, fragrant tomatoes and fresh herbs, as these ingredients define its authentic taste. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the burst of summer in every spoonful!

References

• European Vegetable Soups: Traditional Recipes and Modern Interpretations, by Maria Lopez (2018)
• Seasonal Summer Soups, by Julia Thomson (2020)