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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.