Lazy Day Strawberry-Tomato Soup Shooters

For most Americans, the 4^th of July means friends and family milling about the sweltering backyard while the BBQ chef stands weepy-eyed, beer in one hand and tongs in the other, peering through the smoke at a grill full of charring animal parts and by-products.  Here is a quick and easy way to add some interest and zest to this most iconic holiday.

I love recipes where no cooking is involved, preparation can be done the day before, presentation is simple, and clean-up is quick and easy.  A Strawberry-Tomato Soup Shooter meets all these conditions.  There is no cooking involved;  it is served chilled and benefits from an additional day’s maceration; ; it is properly served in shot glasses, but bistro wine glasses or soup bowls are acceptable; and clean-up is a breeze.  Serve this and watch your guests’ smile with pleasure at your culinary ingenuity.

Prep time 10 minutes

Serves 15 shooters/or six first course starters

1 cup diced canned tomatoes, including liquid

2 Tablespoons tomato paste

½ pint fresh strawberries hulled (stems removed)

2 Tablespoons fresh basil leaves, firmly packed

1 cup diced watermelon

¼ inch wedge of peeled, sweet onion (can omit if you don’t like onion)

1 small peeled garlic clove

1 Tablespoon packed brown sugar

1 Tablespoon white balsamic vinegar (can get at Cost Plus very reasonably)

¼ teaspoon kosher salt

¼ cup chilled white wine (use a wine you would drink)

 Place tomatoes, tomato paste, strawberries, basil leaves, watermelon,  onion, garlic, brown sugar, white balsamic vinegar, and salt into blender or Vitamix and secure lid.

Start at lower speed and gradually increase speed to medium or 5 on the Vitamix, blend for approximately 10 seconds until smooth.  Turn machine off.

 Add wine and start at low speed (two on the Vitamix) and blend for approximately 3 seconds.

Can be served immediately or chilled up to one day for maximum refreshment in hot summer months.

To serve – 15 2-oz glasses

To garnish – small basil leaves and/or wedges of small strawberries or grape tomatoes if desired