Are you craving a vibrant, healthy, and utterly delicious meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This cherry tomato soup recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or a light and refreshing lunch. Packed with flavor and bursting with the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes, this soup is a celebration of summer in every spoonful. It's so easy to make, even beginner cooks will feel like pros! This recipe offers a fantastic quick dinner idea, a healthy meal option, and is a delicious dish the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for extra richness
- Optional Garnish: Fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, crusty bread
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: 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. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your soup.
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Add Tomatoes and Broth: Add the halved cherry tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, and oregano to the pot. Season generously with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and broken down.
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Blend the Soup: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, vent the lid slightly to prevent pressure build-up. Work in batches if necessary.
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Stir in Cream (Optional): If desired, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk for added richness and creaminess. This step is entirely optional, but it adds a lovely texture.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for the Best Cherry Tomato Soup:
- Roast the Tomatoes: For a deeper, more intense flavor, roast the cherry tomatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes before adding them to the pot. This concentrates their sweetness.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add more herbs, spices, or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
- Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Tomato Soup with Parmesan: Stir in a handful of grated Parmesan cheese after blending for a cheesy twist.
- Tomato Basil Soup with Mozzarella: Add fresh mozzarella balls before serving for a delightful cheesy and fresh taste.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a serving size without cream, and may vary depending on ingredients used:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 5-10g
- Protein: 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This homemade cherry tomato soup is a simple, healthy, and incredibly flavorful recipe that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this easy recipe and share your culinary creations! It’s a delicious dish that deserves a spot in your collection of best recipes.