Are you craving a warm, comforting, and incredibly healthy meal? Look no further! This vibrant carrot tomato soup recipe is the perfect answer. It's packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and a fantastic option for a quick dinner, a light lunch, or even a sophisticated appetizer. This simple recipe offers a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, making it a perfect choice for healthy meal planning. Get ready to experience the best of homemade cooking with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
This recipe easily serves four people. Adjust quantities as needed for larger or smaller portions.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for extra richness
- Optional: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
Get started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. This simple step builds the flavor base of your soup.
Add the vegetables and aromatics:
- Stir in the minced garlic, chopped carrots, oregano, and basil. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant. This step enhances the overall taste of your delicious dish.
Simmer to perfection:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender. This slow simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Blend for a smooth texture (optional):
- Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. If using a regular blender, vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup. For a chunkier soup, simply skip this step!
Season and serve:
- Return the soup to the pot (if blended) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk, if desired, for extra creaminess. Heat through gently. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Tips for the Best Carrot Tomato Soup:
- Roasting the carrots: For a deeper, sweeter flavor, roast the carrots in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes before adding them to the soup.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add some sweetness: A teaspoon of brown sugar or maple syrup can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Make it creamy: Instead of cream, blend in a ripe avocado for a naturally creamy and healthy alternative.
Variations:
- Ginger Carrot Tomato Soup: Add 1-inch piece of grated ginger along with the garlic.
- Spicy Carrot Tomato Soup: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Curried Carrot Tomato Soup: Stir in 1 teaspoon of curry powder with the other spices.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without cream):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-180
- Protein: 4-5 grams
- Fat: 5-7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
- Fiber: 5-7 grams
This easy and healthy carrot tomato soup recipe is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious meal! It's sure to become a family favorite, and a staple in your quick dinner ideas repertoire. This homemade cooking masterpiece is a true testament to the beauty of simple, flavorful food recipes.