Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
You know that comforting feeling you get when you take a sip of hearty soup on a chilly day? Imagine that feeling combined with a burst of fresh flavors from a light salad! Spring Soup: Tomato Basil Soup + Salad Combo is that perfect dish that brings you both warmth and refreshment. This delightful recipe celebrates the brightness of spring herbs and veggies while providing a heartwarming hug during the cooler months. With simple ingredients, accessible instructions, and a dish that satisfies both the body and soul, this recipe is a must-try.
In this article, you will discover why this unique tomato basil soup paired with a salad is a favorite among families and chefs alike. You’ll learn how to prepare this delicious dish, explore swapping ingredients based on your dietary preference, and uncover tips that ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time. Whether you are a busy parent looking for a quick healthy meal, a novice in the kitchen, or even someone just wanting to elevate your meal planning game, this recipe has something for everyone.
What Is Spring Soup: Tomato Basil Soup + Salad Combo?
Spring Soup: Tomato Basil Soup + Salad Combo takes classic flavors and elevates them with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Originating from traditional Mediterranean dishes, this soup is characterized by its robust blend of sweet tomatoes and aromatic basil, making it a comforting staple. Its vibrant red hue and aromatic herbs are not only eye-catching but also tantalizing to the senses. You can almost smell the rich aroma wafting through your kitchen as the ingredients simmer away!
The texture of the soup is velvety smooth, thanks to the tomatoes being pureed, making every spoonful a creamy delight. The addition of fresh basil brings a bright, earthy flavor, while a splash of cream can elevate the richness even more. Pairing this soup with a fresh salad, often composed of crisp greens and a zesty dressing, provides a wonderful contrast in texture and flavor. The combination is not just a meal, but an experience — the comforting warmth of the soup combined with the refreshing crunch of the salad altogether creates a wholesome dining experience.
Why You’ll Love This
There are several reasons you will fall in love with this Tomato Basil Soup and Salad Combo. Firstly, the taste is simply unbeatable; the sweetness of ripe tomatoes combined with the peppery bite of fresh basil is an explosion of flavors that dances on your tongue. Moreover, the simplicity of the recipe makes it perfect for anyone, from busy parents juggling hectic schedules to those new in the kitchen looking for a reliable, easy dish.
You may think that cooking a restaurant-quality meal requires hours of preparation, but this recipe is all about ease. Using fresh ingredients can be cost-efficient as well, allowing you to enjoy gourmet flavors without breaking the bank. Additionally, the health benefits abound. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, while basil boasts anti-inflammatory properties. When you combine these ingredients into one dish, you get a comforting, nutritious meal that can even be a part of your meal prep for the week.
Common misconceptions around soups often include that they are time-consuming or difficult to master. This is not the case with our recipe! A few straightforward steps and you’ll have a stunning dish ready to impress anyone at your dining table! Imagine serving this delicious soup at your next family gathering or casual get-together instead of ordering takeout — it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the perfect Tomato Basil Soup + Salad Combo, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cucumber, diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Your choice of salad dressing (like balsamic vinaigrette)
Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating layers of flavor. The **olive oil** serves as the base for sautéing, infusing the dish with richness. Fresh **onions** and **garlic** contribute aromatic flavor and depth, essential for any good soup. The **crushed tomatoes** are the star of the show, delivering that sweet, tangy essence we all crave in a tomato soup. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute **heavy cream** with coconut milk or cashew cream.
For the salad, **romaine lettuce** provides a crunchy texture, while **cucumbers** and **cherry tomatoes** add freshness and juiciness. The **parmesan cheese** enhances the salad with a salty kick, making it irresistible. Don’t forget your favorite **salad dressing** to tie it all together! You can even explore using vinaigrettes or creamy dressings, depending on your taste preference.
How to Make
Making Spring Soup: Tomato Basil Soup + Salad Combo is straightforward and should come together in under 45 minutes. Follow these simple steps:
- Start by heating the olive oil: In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Let it heat up for about a minute until it starts to shimmer. This is important as it allows the flavors of the onions and garlic to be infused well into the oil.
- Sauté the onions: Once the oil is hot, add the diced onions. Let them cook until they become tender and translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. It’s the perfect time to stir occasionally, capturing all those delicious aromas. Be careful not to let them brown too much; we want a golden color, not burnt.
- Add garlic: After the onions are softened, stir in the minced garlic and allow it to cook for about 1 minute. Garlic cooks much faster than onions, and you’ll start to smell its unique aroma filling the kitchen. Be careful not to let it burn, as it can turn bitter.
- Introduce the tomatoes and broth: Slowly add in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Be sure to stir well to combine everything. The crushed tomatoes provide the rich base you want for the soup. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for about 15 minutes. This will allow the ingredients to meld, deepening the flavors.
- Season your soup: Once it has simmered, stir in the balsamic vinegar and sugar. These will balance the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully. Taste for seasoning, and add salt and pepper according to your preferences. If you’re using heavy cream, now is the time to add it, stirring well to create a creamy texture.
- Blend your soup: Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup until it’s smooth and velvety. If you don’t have one, you can transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Just remember to allow it to cool slightly before blending to prevent any splattering. You’ll love how smooth and rich it becomes!
- Prepare the salad: While your soup is simmering, take the opportunity to prepare the salad. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion. Toss lightly to combine. Finish off by sprinkling the parmesan cheese on top and drizzle on your chosen dressing. Give it a gentle toss to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Serve! Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and enjoy alongside your vibrant salad. The freshness of the salad will contrast beautifully with the creamy tomato soup, creating an exciting tasting experience.
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these straightforward steps, you can create an impressive dish that will surely satisfy your cravings. So grab your ingredients, assemble your tools, and let’s get cooking!
Variations & Substitutions
Vegan Spring Soup: If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can easily swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or a cashew cream made by blending soaked cashews with water. This will maintain the desired creaminess while adding a delightful coconut note to the overall dish. You can also omit the parmesan cheese from the salad, and use nutritional yeast as a cheesy approval substitute for extra flavor.
Spicy Version: For those who love a bit of heat, consider adding in a dash of red pepper flakes at the beginning while you’re sautéing the onions and garlic. This little tweak can take the depth of flavor to the next level! If you’d like an even spicier kick, feel free to add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Combine with a side salad that includes diced avocado, which complements the spice beautifully.
Herbed Tomato Basil Soup: Want to elevate the freshness even further? Consider adding other herbs to your tomato basil soup. Chopped fresh oregano or thyme adds a great depth. These herbs can be added during the simmering process for an aromatic result. You can also mix in a dollop of pesto right before serving for an added herbaceous flavor punch.
Adding Protein: To make the meal even heartier or to cater to those needing extra protein, consider adding cooked chickpeas or shredded rotisserie chicken to your soup. Simply add them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat them through, ensuring each bowl feels more substantial and fulfilling.
Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially if you ensure that any additional bread or crouton toppings are also gluten-free. You can elevate your dish by adding gluten-free croutons on top of the soup for some crunch! This adds a fun texture contrast and keeps the meal enjoyable for those sensitive to gluten.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When cooking soup, it can be easy to overlook a few essential steps that may lead to unfavorable outcomes. For instance, a common mistake is not adequately seasoning the soup. Using insufficient salt can make the flavors fall flat. Always taste your soup near the end of cooking and add seasoning gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.
Additionally, if you’re pureeing your soup, ensure that it has cooled slightly first. If you try to blend it while it’s still boiling hot, it can splatter — leading to dangerous burns and a messy kitchen! Always allow it to cool for at least 5 minutes if you’re using a traditional blender. Alternatively, an immersion blender is a safer option that minimizes mess.
Another frequent error is not allowing the soup to simmer long enough. You want the flavors to meld together, and a rushed cooking process can lead to an underdeveloped taste. Following the recommended simmer time will yield a rich and flavorful outcome, so be patient!
Lastly, when dressing your salad, if using a viscous dressing, try letting it coat your greens rather than drowning them. Too much dressing can weigh the salad down and mask its freshness. A light drizzle mixed well is key to enjoying a bright salad alongside your tomato basil soup.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Leftovers from your Spring Soup: Tomato Basil Soup + Salad Combo can easily be stored for later enjoyment. For best results, first separate the soup from the salad. Store the soup in an airtight container, and it will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, allowing a little space for expansion, and it will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove over medium heat.
When reheating the soup, you might find that it thickens a little. You can simply add a splash of broth or water to reach the desired consistency. It’s important to stir well while reheating to ensure even warmth and avoid burning on the bottom of the pot.
However, for food safety, never refreeze previously frozen soup once it has been reheated. Consuming it directly after reheating is crucial for maintaining both flavor and safety!
When it comes to your salad, it’s best to store the salad ingredients separately from the dressing. That way, your greens remain crispy, preventing them from getting soggy. Fresh salads are best enjoyed the same day, but if you need to store them, they can last in the fridge for up to 1 day, provided the dressing is omitted until serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for the soup?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh tomatoes! You’ll need about 3-4 pounds of ripe tomatoes to replace the two cans of crushed tomatoes. Blanch and peel them first, then chop them into small pieces before cooking. Fresh tomatoes will impart a slightly different flavor, often fresher and sweeter. However, be sure to adjust your cooking time since fresh tomatoes may require a longer simmer to develop a similar intensity.
How can I make this soup dairy-free?
To create a dairy-free version of this soup, you can substitute the heavy cream with a coconut milk alternative or cashew cream. This will maintain a creamy texture without sacrificing flavor. Just ensure to use a non-dairy cheese substitute for any topping, such as nutritional yeast, to keep with the theme of avoiding dairy.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Tomato Basil Soup + Salad Combo is perfect for meal prep. The soup can be stored in individual portions and will stay fresh for days. Just make sure to prepare the salad fresh on the day of consumption to maintain its crunchiness and flavor.
What can I serve with this soup?
While this soup is perfect on its own, you can serve it with warm crusty bread, garlic toast, or even a classic grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comforting meal. If you’re looking for lighter pairing options, a refreshing fruit plate or a simple cheese platter can also accompany this dish beautifully.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Yes! You can definitely customize your soup by adding other vegetables, such as spinach, carrots, or bell peppers. Simply chop them into small pieces and sauté them along with the onions and garlic, allowing them to cook until tender. This not only adds nutrition but also enhances the flavor profile and texture of the soup.
Conclusion:
Spring Soup: Tomato Basil Soup + Salad Combo encapsulates all the warmth, comfort, and zing needed for a delightful meal. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a quick lunch between errands, this dish offers incredible flavor without complicated steps. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; customize it to your liking and let your kitchen fill with the wonderful aroma of fresh tomatoes and herbs. Don’t forget to share your experience and variations with friends and family, or even better—invite them to share the meal with you! Enjoy every comforting spoonful and the joy of cooking homemade goodness.
