There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Creamy Tomato Soup paired with freshly baked Rustic Bread. This timeless combination is perfect for chilly days, quick lunches, or even elegant dinners. The soup is rich, velvety, and bursting with the natural sweetness of tomatoes, while the rustic bread adds a hearty, satisfying crunch. Here’s how you can make this delicious duo at home:
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs.
- Creamy and Dreamy: The addition of cream or coconut milk creates a luxurious texture.
- Fresh Herbs: Elevate the flavor with aromatic basil, oregano, or thyme.
- Homemade Rustic Bread: Easy to make and perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a starter, main course, or even a light snack.
Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes or 6-8 fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a dairy-free option)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil or 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, basil, or thyme)
Ingredients for Rustic Bread (or use store-bought):
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil or herbs for flavor
Instructions:
For the Soup:
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, 2 cups broth, 1 teaspoon sugar, basil, and oregano. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth (be careful with hot liquids).
- Stir in the 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
For the Rustic Bread:
- In a large bowl, mix 3 cups flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon yeast. Add 1 1/2 cups warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Cover and let it rise for 12-18 hours at room temperature.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf, place it in the hot Dutch oven, and bake covered for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown.
Serving Suggestions:
- Ladle the creamy tomato soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh herbs.
- Serve with a slice of warm rustic bread on the side for dipping.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of cream on top of the soup for extra richness.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, choose ripe ones for the best taste.
- Adjust the creaminess: Add more or less cream depending on your preference.
- Make it ahead: The soup can be made a day in advance and reheated before serving.
- Customize the bread: Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for extra flavor.
Why This Combo is a Winner:
The combination of Creamy Tomato Soup and Rustic Bread is a match made in culinary heaven. The soup’s velvety texture and rich flavor are perfectly complemented by the bread’s crusty exterior and soft, chewy interior. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, making it suitable for any occasion.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this Creamy Tomato Soup with Fresh Herbs and Rustic Bread is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and filled with wholesome ingredients. Plus, the aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering soup will make your kitchen smell amazing!