Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond or cashew preferred)
- Optional garnishes: Fresh basil leaves, vegan parmesan, crusty bread
Instructions:
- Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. - Add the Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir in the oregano and basil. Season the soup generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. - Simmer:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. - Blend the Soup:
Carefully blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender. If using a regular blender, blend in batches, ensuring the lid is slightly vented to prevent hot splashes. - Stir in Plant-Based Milk:
Once the soup is smooth, gently stir in the unsweetened plant-based milk. Warm through, but do not bring it back to a boil. - Serve:
Ladle the creamy tomato soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves, vegan parmesan, or serve alongside crusty bread.
Flavor-Boosting Tips:
- Roasted Tomato Variation: For a richer flavor, consider roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the pot.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
Pair this soup with a vegan grilled cheese or a simple side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. This creamy and flavorful soup showcases the simplicity and deliciousness of plant-based cooking. Enjoy!