Herby Tomato Soup

Enjoy easy soup recipes like this herby tomato soup, which is full of flavor without all the fuss and perfect for lunch, dinner, and a dollop of burrata! This delightful soup combines fresh herbs and vegetables, making it a comforting choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful: The combination of fresh herbs and garlic creates a rich, aromatic base that elevates the taste of the soup.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and easily accessible ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this herby tomato soup pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad.
• Nutrient-Packed: Full of vegetables and lean proteins, this soup is not only delicious but also healthy.
• Freezable: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for a quick meal later on.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these essential tools before starting. Having the right equipment at hand will ensure that you prepare your herby tomato soup efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon or potato smasher
• Blender (or immersion blender)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking larger quantities of soup evenly without splatter.
• Blender: Helps to achieve a smooth texture for the soup, enhancing its overall mouthfeel.

Ingredients

• 5 slices Turkey Bacon (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil (roughly chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (roughly chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (roughly chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (roughly chopped)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups sliced carrots
• 1 medium sweet yellow onion (diced)
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (28 oz) peeled, whole tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon red apple vinegar
• 8 oz BelGioioso Burrata

How to Make Herby Tomato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a large pot over medium heat, add the Turkey Bacon and cook until crispy, around 10 minutes. Add the butter and melt down. Then add the fresh herbs and garlic. Stir gently for about 2–3 minutes until lightly cooked and fragrant. Add the carrots and onion, continuing to cook on medium heat until softened—around another 10 minutes.

Step 2: Add Tomato Paste and Broth

Add the tomato paste to the pot. Stir continuously for about 2–3 minutes until the paste darkens and coats everything evenly. Next, stir in the flour. Then add the chicken broth and whole tomatoes. Gently smash the tomatoes into the soup using a wooden spoon or potato smasher. Stir in the red apple vinegar, then bring everything to a full boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30–45 minutes.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

Working in batches if necessary, add the soup mixture to a blender and pulse until smooth. Divide it between four bowls. Finally, add about 2 oz of BelGioioso Burrata to each bowl before serving. Enjoy your delightful herby tomato soup!

How to Serve Herby Tomato Soup

Serving herby tomato soup can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. This flavorful dish pairs well with various accompaniments, enhancing its taste and presentation.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. Rustic loaves work best, adding texture to each spoonful.

Top with Cheese

• Consider adding shredded cheese or a dollop of creamy burrata on top for extra richness and flavor.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

• A splash of high-quality olive oil just before serving can elevate the dish, providing a fruity finish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and fragrance that enhances the soup’s herby notes.

How to Perfect Herby Tomato Soup

Perfecting herby tomato soup is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs enhance the overall flavor profile. Don’t hesitate to mix your favorites for a unique twist.
• Balance Acidity: Adjust the acidity by adding a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes taste too tart. This balance can make a big difference.
• Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps deepen the flavors. Aim for at least 30-45 minutes for optimal taste.
• Blend Smoothly: When blending, ensure you achieve a velvety consistency. This can be done in batches for better texture.
• Season Well: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. A little more salt or pepper can enhance all the flavors beautifully.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to top your soup with different ingredients like croutons or roasted vegetables for added crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Herby Tomato Soup

Pairing side dishes with herby tomato soup can create a complete meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
   A classic pairing, grilled cheese offers melty goodness that perfectly complements the soup’s flavors.

2. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and veggies add nutritional value while being visually appealing.

3. Garlic Breadsticks
   These soft, buttery sticks are perfect for dipping and add an irresistible garlic flavor to your meal.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy contrast in texture and flavor alongside your soup.

5. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber adds a nutritious element that balances the richness of the soup.

6. Savory Scones
   Cheesy or herb-infused scones offer a delightful contrast in texture that pairs well with herby tomato soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Herby Tomato Soup, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and tips to enhance your cooking experience.

• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the flavor significantly. Always use fresh herbs instead of dried for a vibrant taste.
• Not Cooking Vegetables Enough: Undercooking vegetables can lead to a soup with uneven texture. Ensure carrots and onions are properly softened before proceeding.
• Ignoring Tomato Paste Cooking Time: Failing to cook the tomato paste can result in a raw flavor. Spend a few minutes cooking it until it darkens for a richer taste.
• Over-blending the Soup: Blending too long can make the soup too thin or lose its hearty texture. Blend just until smooth for the best consistency.
• Forgetting Seasoning Adjustments: It’s crucial to taste and adjust seasonings as needed during cooking. This ensures the soup is flavorful and balanced.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 4-5 days.

Freezing Herby Tomato Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Herby Tomato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Herby Tomato Soup that may help you prepare this delicious dish.

What makes Herby Tomato Soup special?

Herby Tomato Soup is special due to its blend of fresh herbs that add depth and complexity, making it much more flavorful than standard tomato soups.

Can I customize my Herby Tomato Soup?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables, spices, or even proteins like chicken or turkey for added nutrition and variety.

How do I store leftover Herby Tomato Soup?

Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days or freeze it for longer storage.

What should I serve with Herby Tomato Soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Herby Tomato Soup is not only easy to make but also versatile. You can customize it with various herbs and vegetables based on your preferences. Enjoy this comforting soup any day of the week!