This tomato basil soup is a comforting classic that can be tailored to your tomato preferences. Whether you choose the vibrant sweetness of Village Farms Greenhouse Grown Sinfully Sweet Campari®, the robust flavor of Delectable TOV®, or the juicy perfection of Sensational Sara®, this soup promises bold flavor and creamy texture. Perfect for any occasion, pair it with crusty bread or a melty grilled cheese for a satisfying meal.
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Sauté Aromatics Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.
Prepare the Tomato Base Dice your chosen Sinfully Sweet Campari®, Delectable TOV®, or Sensational Sara® tomatoes to ensure even blending. Add the diced tomatoes to the saucepan and cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing their natural sweetness to intensify.
Simmer the Soup Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, Italian seasoning, and fresh basil. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the saucepan with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar, and simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Blend for Smoothness Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the mixture in small batches to a blender or food processor and puree until silky smooth. Be extra cautious, as the soup will be hot.
Adjust and Season Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
Serve and Garnish Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves or your favorite toppings. Serve warm with crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich.
Storing the Soup Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Make It Your Own with Village Farms Greenhouse Grown
Whether you prefer the sweetness of Sinfully Sweet Campari®, the classic flavor of Delectable TOV®, or the juicy richness of Sensational Sara®, this tomato basil soup is endlessly adaptable to your favorite Village Farms Greenhouse Grown tomatoes. Remember, dicing the tomatoes before blending ensures a smooth and consistent texture. Enjoy the vibrant taste and comforting warmth of this dish, and explore more recipes featuring our premium tomato varieties!
Celebrate the season with Village Farms tomatoes, paired perfectly with cheese and wine to delight your guests and elevate your holiday spread. With cooking, roasting, or skewering options for versatility, this guide will inspire your festive meals with thoughtful, flavorful pairings.
The Symbolism of the 12 Days Through Food
Each day of the 12 Days of Christmas can reflect a different facet of the season’s joy and meaning, symbolized by the vibrant pairings of tomatoes, cheese, and wine. Like the gifts in the carol, these foods remind us of life’s abundance and beauty:
Bright tomatoes symbolize renewal, vitality, and the warmth of family gatherings.
Artisan cheeses represent richness and the nurturing bonds of community.
Fine wines capture the festive spirit and the joy of sharing in life’s blessings.
Why We Feast?
Feasting before and during the 12 Days of Christmas brings together two key aspects of this time of year:
Anticipation and Gratitude: Leading up to December 25, we celebrate the anticipation of joy—giving thanks for what we have while preparing for the renewal symbolized by Christmas and the solstice.
Reflection and Sharing: The 12 Days following Christmas are a time to reflect on the meaning of love, light, and hope in our lives. Food plays a central role as we gather with loved ones, sharing in the abundance of the season.
A Celebration of Faith and Connection
By pairing each of the 12 Days of Christmas with the vibrant flavors of Village Farms tomatoes, complemented by fine wines and cheeses, we create a feast that honors both ancient traditions and the joy of modern gatherings. Whether you celebrate the season’s religious significance, its cultural traditions, or simply the warmth of family and friends, these thoughtful pairings symbolize community, gratitude, and the renewal of hope.
Let the season inspire you to savor its blessings, share its abundance, and embrace its timeless spirit of love and joy.
Cheese: Burrata Roasting these mini San Marzano-style tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the creamy, buttery texture of burrata. Finish with olive oil and cracked pepper.
Wine: Chianti Classico This bright red wine’s acidity and cherry notes perfectly match the tomato’s rich, sweet flavor.
– On the Second Day of Christmas –
Sinfully Sweet Campari® (Skewered)
Cheese: Fresh Mozzarella Skewer Campari tomatoes with mozzarella balls and fresh basil for a holiday twist on Caprese salad. Add a balsamic drizzle for extra flair.
Wine: Sauvignon Blanc The crisp citrus and herbaceous notes of Sauvignon Blanc complement the bright acidity and sweetness of these tomatoes.
– On the Third Day of Christmas –
Sensational Sara®
Cheese: Aged Manchego These tomatoes are juicy, firm, and slightly tangy, pairing wonderfully with Manchego’s nutty, slightly salty flavor.
Wine: Rioja A Spanish red with earthy, berry notes enhances the tomato’s balance of sweetness and acidity, echoing the Manchego pairing.
– On the Fourth Day of Christmas –
Good Day Sunshine®
Cheese: Ricotta These golden-hued tomatoes are mild, sweet, and low in acidity. Pair with whipped ricotta and honey for a dessert-style dish or use as a base for a festive tart.
Wine: Viognier A floral, medium-bodied white wine complements the sweetness and delicate flavor of these tomatoes.
– On the Fifth Day of Christmas –
Cabernet Estate Reserve® (Roasted)
Cheese: Gruyère Roasting these savory, robust tomatoes deepens their umami profile. Pair with Gruyère for its nutty, slightly sweet flavor that enhances the tomato’s richness.
Wine: Malbec A bold red wine with dark fruit and chocolate notes stands up to the tomato’s intensity.
– On the Sixth Day of Christmas –
Cherry No. 9 Fall in Love Again® (Skewered)
Cheese: Brie Skewer these sweet cherry tomatoes with Brie and drizzle with honey for a luxurious appetizer. Add fresh rosemary for an aromatic touch.
Wine: Prosecco This sparkling wine’s crisp bubbles and slight sweetness highlight the vibrant flavor of these tomatoes.
– On the Seventh Day of Christmas –
Juicy Beefsteak (Sliced)
Cheese: Aged Cheddar Sliced Beefsteak tomatoes are ideal for layering with sharp aged cheddar on crusty bread or in sandwiches. Add a dash of mustard for a bold holiday snack.
Wine: Zinfandel This rich, fruity red wine enhances the meaty texture and natural sweetness of the tomato.
Cheese: Goat Cheese Hollow out these dense, tangy tomatoes and stuff them with herbed goat cheese. Bake until golden for a warm and comforting holiday dish.
Wine: Pinot Noir A light-bodied red with earthy, berry notes complements the tomato’s tangy flavor and creamy filling.
– On the Ninth Day of Christmas –
Exquisite Heirlooms (Raw or Roasted)
Cheese: Blue Cheese Heirlooms are beautifully complex, with a mix of sweet, tangy, and earthy flavors. Pair with the bold, tangy taste of blue cheese for a dynamic pairing. Serve fresh or roasted with a drizzle of honey.
Wine: Rosé of Syrah A rosé with vibrant berry and floral notes mirrors the tomato’s complex flavor and adds a festive touch.
– On the Tenth Day of Christmas –
Delectable TOV (Sliced or Grilled)
Cheese: Halloumi Grilled TOV (tomatoes on the vine) paired with Halloumi offers a smoky, salty, and sweet combination. Add a sprinkle of oregano for Mediterranean flair.
Wine: Grenache A medium-bodied red wine with soft tannins and berry notes balances the tomato’s sweet smokiness.
– On the Eleventh Day of Christmas –
Lip Smackn’ Grape®
Cheese: CreamCheese Sweet grape tomatoes shine when paired with the smooth texture and mild flavor of cream cheese. Serve on crostini with fresh dill for a festive snack.
Wine: Moscato d’Asti The light sweetness and sparkle of Moscato d’Asti echo the tomato’s natural sugars for a delightful pairing.
– On the Twelfth Day of Christmas –
Maverick Mix® (Roasted with Herbs)
Cheese: Parmigiano-Reggiano Roast these firm tomatoes with rosemary and thyme to concentrate their flavor. Shave Parmigiano-Reggiano over the top for a nutty, salty finish.
Wine: Barolo This full-bodied Italian red wine matches the tomato’s robust, roasted flavor for an elegant pairing.
Tips for Hosting a Holiday Pairing Party
Festive Presentation: Arrange tomatoes, cheese, and wine on boards with seasonal touches like cranberries, pine sprigs, and candles.
Interactive Pairings: Encourage guests to create their favorite combinations using the prepared options.
Cooking Variety: Incorporate raw, roasted, skewered, and stuffed tomato options to keep the menu exciting.
With this guide, you’ll transform your holiday celebrations into a flavorful and elegant experience. Village Farms tomatoes, paired with artisanal cheeses and festive wines, bring a touch of gourmet to your Christmas table.
After a long day at school, kids often come home hungry and in need of a tasty, nutritious snack. Incorporating fresh, greenhouse-grown produce can turn simple snacks into delicious and healthy treats. Most Kids have full schedules and need quick nutritional fuel for after school activities. Village Farms’ tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers are perfect for this task. Their crisp, sweet flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Here are four easy-to-make recipes that kids will love, and you’ll appreciate their simplicity and nutritional value. And all have an average prep time of 15 minutes or less!
Satisfying Tomato and Cucumber Sandwich – serving size 1
Nothing says Summer like a Fresh tomato and cucumber sandwich. But just because summer is coming to an end does not mean you can’t enjoy the Garden Fresh Flavor® all year long. With Village Farms greenhouse grown varieties you have summer on a plate all year long. This easy to prepare sandwich is a great snack packed with nutrients such as Vitamin A & C, plus Calcium, Iron, Potassium, and Protein.
Ingredients:
1 Village Farms® greenhouse-grown Luscious Seedless® Long English cucumber
1 Village Farms® greenhouse-grown tomato try Delectable TOV®, Juicy Beefsteak®, Sensational Sara®, Exquisite Heirloom® or Sinfully Sweet Campari® tomatoes. Each of these varieties are excellent slicers for sandwiches.
2 slices whole grain bread
2 tablespoons hummus
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Veggies: Wash the cucumber and tomato. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds (about 8 slices) and the whole tomato into slightly thicker slices.
Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a thin layer of hummus on each slice of bread. If using, sprinkle fresh dill over the hummus.
Layer the Veggies: Place cucumber slices on one of the bread slices and tomato slices on the other one. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Combine and Serve: Top each slices veggie sides down to make one sandwich. Cut into quarters or fun shapes with cookie cutters for added appeal.
Healthy Stuffed Bell Pepper – serving size 2
This Healthy Stuffed Bell Pepper recipe is perfect for quick and nutritious after-school snacking for kids. The colorful Village Farms® Sweet Bell® peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with vitamins and fiber. Stuffing them with protein-rich cottage cheese provides a satisfying and healthy bite, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley and optional grated cheese adds a burst of flavor that kids will love. Easy to prepare and ready to chill in the refrigerator, this snack offers a fun, delicious, and wholesome option that fits seamlessly into busy afternoons.
Ingredients:
1 Village Farms® greenhouse-grown Sweet Bell® peppers (red, yellow, or orange)
1 cup Cottage Cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon grated cheese cheddar or parmesan (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Pepper: Wash the Sweet Bell pepper and slice them in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and membranes.
Stuff the Pepper: Spoon cottage into each pepper half. For added flavor, sprinkle with chopped parsley and grated cheese if desired.
Chill and Serve: Arrange the stuffed pepper half on a platter and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Fun Tomato and Cucumber Skewers – serving size 1
These Mini Veggie Skewers are the ultimate after-school snack, combining fun and nutrition in every bite. Picture crisp Village Farms® Scrumptious Mini® cucumbers and burstingly, (yes, burstingly!), sweet cherry tomatoes, all threaded onto skewers and drizzled with a zesty olive oil-balsamic glaze. The addition of creamy mozzarella or burrata cheese balls takes these skewers from simple to sensational. They’re not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight, perfect for keeping kids engaged and excited about healthy eating. Whether served cold or grilled for a warm option, these skewers make snacking both easy and irresistible.
Ingredients:
3 Village Farms® greenhouse-grown Scrumptious Mini® cucumbers
1 cup (about 10 tomatoes) Village Farms® greenhouse-grown Heavenly Villagio Marzano®, Cherry no. 9® or Lip Smackn’ Grape® tomatoes
1/4 cup mozzarella or burrata cheese balls
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
2 Wooden skewers (soaked in water to prevent burning)
Instructions:
Prepare the Veggies: Wash the cucumber and tomatoes. Slice the cucumber into bite-sized rounds.
Assemble the Skewers: Thread cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers, alternating between the two.
Dress the Skewers: In a small bowl, mix olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Brush or drizzle the mixture over the skewers. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve: Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese just before serving. These skewers can be served as is or lightly grilled for a warm option.
Zesty Pepper and Tomato Salsa with Tortilla Chips – serving size 1
This vibrant and zesty Fresh Veggie Salsa is an exciting after-school snack that kids will love. Featuring Village Farms® Sweet Bell® peppers and juicy Sensational Sara® or Sinfully Sweet Campari® tomatoes, this salsa bursts with flavor and freshness. The crisp bell pepper and tangy red onion add crunch, while a splash of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro bring it all together with a delightful kick. Served with tortilla chips for dipping, this salsa not only satisfies snack cravings but also introduces kids to a tasty way to enjoy their veggies. It’s a fun, colorful, and healthy option that makes after-school snacking both enjoyable and nutritious.
Ingredients:
1 Village Farms® greenhouse-grown Sweet Bell® bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange)
3 or 4 Village Farms® greenhouse-grown tomato Sensational Sara®(use 3) or Sinfully Sweet Campari® (use 4) tomatoes
1/2 red onion
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla chips for dipping
Instructions:
Prepare the Veggies: Wash and dice the bell pepper and tomato. Peel and finely chop the red onion.
Mix the Salsa: In a bowl, combine the diced bell pepper, tomato, and red onion. Add lime juice and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Serve the salsa with tortilla chips on the side. This refreshing salsa is perfect for dipping and can also be used as a topping for other dishes.
Creative and Healthy Eating Possibilities Abound!
With Village Farms’ greenhouse-grown tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, these after-school snacks are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals. These recipes are designed to be simple enough for kids to help prepare, making snack time both fun and nutritious. Enjoy these fresh and easy snacks that will keep your kids satisfied and happy after a busy day!
1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese (torn into bite size pieces)
¼ cup basil, sliced thin
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoons black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preheat grilled to medium-low heat, about 325 degrees.
In a bowl combine cooled and cooked farro, torn mozzarella cheese, basil, and ½ of the salt and pepper. Gently stir to combine.
Take the Sensational Sara® tomatoes and with a very sharp knife cut off the stem and then go around the edge of the tomato to remove the seeds inside. Use a spoon to gently scoop out insides.
Flip tomatoes over gently and brush the bottoms with olive oil to prevent sticking on the grill.
Scoop 2-3 tablespoons of the farro salad inside of the tomato, careful not to overstuff.
Gently place the tomatoes on the grill and cook with lid down for 7-10 minutes until cheese is melty and tomatoes are cooked slightly.
Using a spatula, remove from the grill gently. Top with more fresh basil and serve immediately. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze if desired.
2lb Sensational Sara tomatoes (remove vine & stems then rinse)
3 tbsp. oil olive
2 tsp flake or kosher salt
1 bulb garlic (about 6 peeled cloves)
1 medium yellow onion (diced)
1 bunch basil (chopped)
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1.5 cups heavy cream or coconut milk
2 tbsp. butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Crushed red pepper to taste
Instructions
Place whole tomatoes in roasting pan calyx side down. Sprinkle with 2tlbs olive oil and salt. Place in oven on broil at 500 degrees for 30-45 minutes or until browned on top and tomatoes split open. At halfway point throw garlic cloves on top. Then remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 mins.
While tomatoes are in the oven, caramelize onions in skillet on stovetop with remaining 1 tbsp. olive oil. Remove from heat and let cool.
In blender or food processor place roasted tomatoes and garlic add caramelized onion. Add half of chopped basil and all of broth then blend on high for 2 mins.
Heat butter in heavy bottom saucepan on stove top. Pour tomato mixture in saucepan on med heat until simmer then reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream and stir.. Salt and pepper to taste. Continue to simmer for 10 mins while stirring frequently.
Ladle into soup bowls and garnish with remaining basil. Add crushed red pepper to taste. A nice side would be to serve with crusty bread, and cheese of choice.
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Note: Make recipe vegan by replacing heavy cream with coconut milk, chicken stock with veggie stock and regular butter with vegan butter.
