Quick Herbed Tomato Soup Recipe When You Crave For A Homemade Comfort Food

When the weather turns chilly or you're simply in the mood for a comforting bowl of soup, a classic tomato soup can be incredibly satisfying. This Quick Herbed Tomato Soup recipe is designed to be both delicious and convenient, perfect for busy days when you want something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. With its vibrant tomato flavor enhanced by a blend of fresh herbs, this soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this soup is a versatile and delicious choice that's both easy to make and delightful to eat.

Total Time - 25-30 minutes
Prep Time- 10 mins
Cook Time- 15-20 mins

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier texture)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

How To Prepare

1. Heat the Olive Oil: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Cook the onion, stirring frequently, until it becomes translucent and soft, which should take about 4-5 minutes.

2. Add Garlic, Carrot, and Celery: Next, add the minced garlic, chopped carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté these ingredients for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until they start to soften. Stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning.

3. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Once the vegetables are softened, pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. The crushed tomatoes form the base of your soup, while the vegetable broth adds depth and richness.

4. Season the Soup: Add the dried basil, oregano, and thyme to the pot. These dried herbs will infuse the soup with a robust flavor. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you prefer a slightly sweeter soup to counteract the acidity of the tomatoes, you can add
a teaspoon of sugar at this stage.

5. Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.

6. Blend the Soup (Optional): For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Blend until smooth and return to the pot.

7. Add Cream (Optional): If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream at this stage. Heat the soup gently to warm through, but avoid boiling once the cream is added to prevent curdling. The cream adds a luxurious richness to the soup and balances the acidity.

8. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference. If the soup is too acidic, a bit more sugar can help balance the flavors.

9. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite side, such as a grilled cheese sandwich or crusty bread.

Nutritional Values

Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture of this herbed tomato soup, and savor the satisfaction of a home-cooked classic made effortlessly.