Are you ready to elevate your soup game? This recipe for cherry tomato soup is incredibly simple, bursting with fresh flavor, and perfect for any season. Forget bland, watery tomato soup – this recipe delivers a vibrant, intensely flavorful bowl of goodness. Using cherry tomatoes ensures a naturally sweet and concentrated taste. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is remarkably straightforward, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes: The star of the show! Look for ripe, brightly colored tomatoes for the best flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that aromatic punch.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A healthy and flavorful base.
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth): Creates a smooth and flavorful soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds an Italian flair. Fresh basil works wonderfully too!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to enhancing the natural flavors.
- Optional: A splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for extra richness, a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy finish, or fresh basil leaves for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy steps to create a delicious cherry tomato soup recipe your family and friends will love.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't let the garlic brown.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Simmer
Add the cherry tomatoes to the pot. You can halve or quarter them if they're particularly large, but leaving them whole adds a nice texture. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
Carefully transfer the tomato mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender directly in the pot). Blend until completely smooth. If using a regular blender, work in batches and vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the vegetable broth and dried basil. Season generously with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the cherry tomato soup into bowls. Garnish with a dollop of cream, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer soup: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Roasted tomatoes: Roasting the cherry tomatoes before adding them to the soup will deepen their flavor.
- Other herbs: Experiment with different herbs like oregano, thyme, or marjoram.
- Make it vegan: Use vegetable broth and omit the cream.
Why This Cherry Tomato Soup Recipe is the Best
This recipe is a winner for many reasons:
- Simplicity: It's incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Fresh Flavor: The use of fresh cherry tomatoes delivers an intensely vibrant taste.
- Versatility: It's easily customizable to your liking with various herbs, spices, and additions.
- Healthier Option: It's a lighter and healthier alternative to cream-based tomato soups.
Enjoy your homemade cherry tomato soup! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out.
