Pappa al pomodoro is a soup made with tomatoes and bread, a tasty way to enjoy fresh seasonal ingredients in the summer. This dish is typical of the Tuscan cuisine.

Once again, we see the use of leftover bread, as in other recipes I list in my blog (cacciucco, ribollita, etc.). But you can use fresh bread and simply toast it in the oven to absorb the sauce better. 

Credit: Lacucinaitaliana.com

Ingredients

• 4 cups broth (both vegetable and meat broths can be used, based on your own preferences and dietary concerns).
• 2 lb. ripe tomatoes – peeled, seeded, and pureed
• 11 oz. sourdough bread (not sliced, and 1 day old preferably)
• 1 onion
• 1 garlic clove
• Extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Basil

Instructions

• Dice the onion and the garlic, and then sauté them in a large pan with some extra vergin olive oil.
• Add the peeled, seeded, and pureed tomatoes. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10 minutes.
• Cut the bread into pieces or thin slices. Drizzle some oil over the bread and then bake in a hot oven for a few minutes. Take them out and add them to the pot with the tomatoes. An artisan loaf made by your local bakery is the best choice. Avoid industrial bread that lacks flavor and freshness.
• Add some fresh basil leaves and plenty of olive oil. When the bread has soaked up the tomato sauce, add the hot broth and season to taste. Cook for about 15 minutes adding more broth, if needed.
• Let the pappa al pomodoro rest for an hour, then stir well to make the bread and the liquid blend together. Serve warm, but not hot, with a splash of olive oil and a basil leaf on top.

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Natural Hot Springs

Tuscany is blessed with many natural hot springs that have therapeutic properties and soothing effects. You can enjoy the warm water and the stunning scenery at these locations:

• Terme di Saturnia: This is one of the most famous hot springs in Tuscany, located in the Maremma area. The water here flows from a volcanic crater and has a temperature of 37°C. The water is rich in minerals and has benefits for the skin, muscles, and joints. You can also visit the nearby spa resort that offers treatments and massages.
• Terme di Sassetta: This is a hidden gem in the Livorno province, surrounded by chestnut trees and hills. The water here has a temperature of 36°C and contains iron, calcium, and magnesium. The water is good for the respiratory system, circulation, and digestion. You can also enjoy the sauna, steam room, and relaxation area².
• Bagni di Pisa: This is a historic spa town near Pisa, where the Medici family used to come for their holidays. The water here has a temperature of 38°C and contains sulfur, bicarbonate, and salt. The water is beneficial for the skin, bones, and nervous system. You can also stay at the elegant spa resort that has a thermal pool, a Turkish bath, and a fitness center¹².

Spa Resorts

If you prefer more comfort and luxury, you can choose from one of the many spa resorts in Tuscany that offer high-quality facilities and services. You can pamper yourself with massages, facials, body treatments, and more at these places:

• ADLER Spa Resort THERMAE: This is a five-star resort in the Val d’Orcia area, famous for its thermal pool that overlooks the Tuscan countryside. The resort has a spa center that offers over 120 treatments, including Ayurveda, aromatherapy, and acupuncture. You can also enjoy the gourmet restaurant, the wine bar, and the fitness activities¹².
• Tombolo Talasso Resort: This is a four-star resort on the Etruscan coast, close to the sea. The resort has a talasso center that uses seawater and marine algae for its treatments. You can also relax in the indoor and outdoor pools, the sauna, and the hammam. You can also taste the local cuisine at the restaurant and visit the nearby wine cellars¹².
• Castello la Leccia: This is a charming resort in a medieval castle near Siena. The resort has a wellness center that uses organic products made from olive oil and herbs grown on site. You can also enjoy the outdoor pool with a panoramic view, the wine cellar, and the cooking classes³.

Holistic Retreats

If you are looking for a more spiritual and mindful experience, you can join one of the holistic retreats in Tuscany that offer yoga, meditation, and other practices to enhance your well-being. You can learn from experienced teachers and connect with nature at these locations:

• Soulspace: This is a yoga studio in Florence that organizes retreats in various locations in Tuscany. You can practice yoga, meditation, breathwork, sound healing, and more with qualified instructors. You can also explore the cultural and natural beauty of Tuscany with guided tours.
• Forest bathing: This is an activity that involves immersing yourself in nature and using all your senses to appreciate its benefits. You can join forest bathing sessions on Mount Amiata with certified guides who will help you relax and recharge your energy.
• White Iris Beauty SPA by Lungarno Collection: This is a spa center in Florence that offers holistic treatments inspired by ancient traditions. You can try reflexology, shiatsu, reiki, craniosacral therapy, and more with professional therapists. You can also enjoy the elegant atmosphere of the spa and its location near the Arno river⁴.

The post The Best Wellness Destinations in Tuscany first appeared on Tuscan Dream Vacation.