Vitamin C-Rich Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
One of the comforting foods which could never go out of fashion is tomato soup. It tastes a lot like nectar besides being packed with needed nutrients. This creamy tomato soup recipe is an ideal way to make up for increasing Vitamin C due to the fresh tomatoes and other nutritious ingredients. It is a perfect snack to have during cold weather or an appetizer that will help keep you healthy and warm.
Ingredients
- 6 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream (for a creamier texture)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice (optional, for an extra Vitamin C boost)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Cook the Tomatoes:
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot. Stir in the dried basil and oregano, then cook for another 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
- Blend the Soup:
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth. Return the soup to the pot.
- Add Creaminess:
- Stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream to give the soup a rich and creamy texture. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season and Serve:
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you like a tangier flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Enjoy!
- Serve the soup hot, paired with your favorite crusty bread or a light salad.
Health Benefits of Vitamin C-Rich Creamy Tomato Soup
- Immunity Booster
Tomatoes are an excellent source of Vitamin C, which is one of the most powerful antioxidants and assists in boosting the immunity of a person to help him or her fight against infections.
- Skin Health
It is also an integral part of collagen production, which is highly essential for healthy skin. This soup may help your skin get younger-looking and radiant.
- Promotes Heart Health
The lycopene in the tomatoes, combined with Vitamin C, works to reduce heart disease risks by lowering levels of bad cholesterol and improving blood vessel function.
- Aids Digestion
The fiber present in the tomatoes and other vegetables of this soup encourages healthy digestion and helps avoid constipation.
- Fights Inflammation
Antioxidants in tomatoes, especially Vitamin C, help fight inflammation in the body and decrease the risk of chronic diseases such as arthritis.
Enjoy a delicious vitamin C-rich tomato soup.