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 recipe combines fresh herbs with hearty ingredients, creating a comforting and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed any time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up this herby tomato soup in no time.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of fresh herbs and tomatoes provides an aromatic flavor profile that delights the senses.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or side dish, this soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with nutrients from vegetables and herbs, it’s a wholesome option for any meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything on hand ensures you won’t miss a step while preparing your herby tomato soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon or potato smasher
• Blender

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients evenly and allowing flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Wooden spoon or potato smasher: Great for mixing ingredients thoroughly and smashing tomatoes to create a rich texture in your soup.
• Blender: Necessary for achieving that smooth consistency that makes the soup delightful to enjoy.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 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)

For Flavoring

• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (28 oz) peeled, whole tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon red apple vinegar

For Serving

• 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 2-3 minutes, or until lightly cooked and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Add the sliced carrots and diced onion to the pot. Continue cooking on medium heat until softened, around 10 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Add the tomato paste to the pot. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until it darkens and coats everything nicely. Then stir in the flour.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Tomatoes

Gradually add the chicken broth along with the peeled whole tomatoes. Gently smash the tomatoes into the soup using a wooden spoon or potato smasher. Stir in the red apple vinegar then bring the pot to a full boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes.

Step 5: Blend Until Smooth

Working in batches, transfer the soup mixture to a blender and pulse until smooth. Divide between four bowls.

Step 6: Serve with Burrata

Top each bowl with 2 oz of BelGioioso Burrata before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious herby tomato soup!

How to Serve Herby Tomato Soup

Herby tomato soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your herby tomato soup with warm, crusty bread for dipping. A sourdough or baguette works wonderfully to soak up the flavors.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top for an extra burst of flavor and color, enhancing both taste and presentation.

Accompanied by Cheese

• Serve with a side of cheese toast or grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal. The gooey cheese complements the savory soup perfectly.

With a Dollop of Yogurt

• A spoonful of plain yogurt adds creaminess and a tangy contrast. This is especially refreshing on hot days.

As a Base for Other Dishes

• Use the herby tomato soup as a base for other recipes, such as pasta or rice dishes. It can add depth and richness to your main courses.

How to Perfect Herby Tomato Soup

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your herby tomato soup, consider these tips:

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs bring more aromatic flavors than dried varieties. Always opt for fresh when possible.
• Balance Flavors: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking, adding salt and pepper gradually for the perfect balance.
• Blend Well: For a smoother texture, ensure you blend the soup thoroughly. If you prefer chunkier bits, pulse it just enough to combine.
• Cook Slowly: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps deepen flavors. Patience pays off in developing rich tastes.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings like croutons, seeds, or even a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.

Best Side Dishes for Herby Tomato Soup

Pairing your herby tomato soup with complementary sides can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic side that offers crunchy texture and rich garlic flavor—perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
2. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the heartiness of the soup.
3. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide a filling option that pairs well with the tomato base.
4. Pasta Salad
   A cold pasta salad with veggies and Italian dressing adds an interesting contrast to the warm soup.
5. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits
   These soft biscuits complement the herby flavors while delivering cheesy goodness in every bite.
6. Vegetable Fritters
   Crispy vegetable fritters add crunch and nutrition, making them an excellent accompaniment to your meal.
7. Antipasto Platter
   A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers variety and enhances the overall experience.
8. Quinoa Bowl
   A nutritious quinoa bowl topped with roasted veggies adds heartiness without overshadowing the flavors of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making herby tomato soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can lead to a lack of vibrant flavor. Always opt for fresh herbs when possible for the best taste.
• Overcooking Garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if overcooked. Add it just after melting the butter and cook it lightly to keep its flavor intact.
• Not Blending Enough: If you don’t blend the soup well enough, it may have an unappealing texture. Ensure that you blend until smooth for a creamy consistency.
• Ignoring Tomato Quality: The quality of tomatoes affects the soup significantly. Choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes or high-quality canned ones for the best results.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Every ingredient has its own saltiness. Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust seasoning accordingly to balance flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Herby Tomato Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Herby Tomato Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until hot.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until hot, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding herby tomato soup:

How can I make my Herby Tomato Soup thicker?

You can add more tomato paste or use a cornstarch slurry to thicken it up while cooking.

Can I use other herbs in Herby Tomato Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs like cilantro or parsley to personalize your soup.

What is the best way to store Herby Tomato Soup?

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

Can I add protein to this Herby Tomato Soup?

Yes! You can add shredded chicken or beans for extra protein and heartiness.

Is this Herby Tomato Soup suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! It’s great for meal prep since it stores well and tastes even better after sitting overnight.

Final Thoughts

This herby tomato soup is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. It’s perfect as a lunch or dinner option, especially paired with a dollop of burrata on top. Feel free to customize with additional veggies or proteins based on your preferences!