Are you ready to experience soup-making like never before? Your Vitamix isn't just a blender; it's a culinary powerhouse capable of creating velvety smooth, restaurant-quality soups in minutes. Forget chunky textures and tedious cleanup – this recipe unlocks the secret to effortless, delicious homemade goodness. We're diving into the vibrant world of creamy tomato soup, showcasing how your Vitamix can transform simple ingredients into a truly unforgettable meal. This is one of the best recipes for healthy meals, perfect for a quick dinner idea or a comforting lunch.
Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Soup (Vitamix Recipe)
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped (heirloom tomatoes add extra flavor!)
- 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or coconut cream (for vegan option)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Begin by washing and chopping your tomatoes and onion. Mince the garlic. This is the easiest part of the homemade cooking process!
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Blend it All: Add the chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, canned tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to your Vitamix container. Secure the lid tightly.
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Blend to Perfection: Start on a lower speed and gradually increase to high. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. This is where the Vitamix truly shines, creating a luxuriously smooth texture without any lumps.
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Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
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Finishing Touches: Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) for extra richness. Blend briefly to combine.
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Serve and Enjoy: Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. This easy recipe makes a fantastic and delicious dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Tomato Soup:
- Roasting the tomatoes: For an even deeper, richer flavor, roast the tomatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-30 minutes before blending. This step adds a lovely smoky sweetness.
- Adjust the consistency: If your soup is too thick, add a little more broth. If it's too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the liquid.
- 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.
Variations:
- Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Soup: Replace the tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a vibrant and subtly sweet soup.
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a jalapeño pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Tomato Basil Soup with Mozzarella: Top with fresh mozzarella for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fat: 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
This healthy meal is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or simply a delicious and easy homemade option. Enjoy your perfectly blended soup!