High Protein Tomato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy and nourishing dish to warm your heart and soul, you’ve come to the right place! This High Protein Tomato Soup is a beloved recipe that combines the comforting flavors of tomatoes with the creamy goodness of cottage cheese. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick meal or for family gatherings where everyone will feel at home. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, you’ll want to make it again and again!

This soup is not just delicious; it’s also packed with protein, making it a great choice for anyone aiming to boost their nutrition. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a wholesome bowl of joy that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delightful soup ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this creamy tomato soup. It’s a great way to get some veggies into the little ones!
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Versatile flavors: Enjoy it as-is or customize it with your favorite garnishes for an extra touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this High Protein Tomato Soup is a breeze thanks to these simple, wholesome ingredients. You might already have many of them in your pantry!

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion (diced)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 cans of canned whole tomatoes (two 28 oz cans)
• 3 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)

For the Creamy Texture

• 1½ cup cottage cheese (2% MF)
• Pepper (to taste)

Optional Garnishes

• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add some greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you’re in the mood for a little heat.
• Swap the protein: Use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese if you prefer a different creamy texture.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for new flavor profiles.

How to Make High Protein Tomato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by adding olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Once hot, toss in the diced onions and cook until they soften, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial because sautéing brings out their natural sweetness, which adds depth to our soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, stir in minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. Don’t forget the kosher salt—this helps enhance all those wonderful flavors! If needed, deglaze the pot with a splash of vegetable broth.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Herbs

Now, add tomato paste into the mix and allow it to cook for about a minute. Then sprinkle in sugar and dried basil, giving everything a good stir. This layer builds richness and complexity in your soup.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Pour in those canned tomatoes (liquid included!) along with vegetable broth. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully together. Feel free to adjust salt at this stage if needed.

Step 5: Blend Until Smooth

Once done simmering, carefully transfer your soup into a blender along with cottage cheese. Blend until silky smooth! If your blender isn’t large enough, do this in batches—just ensure steam can escape by leaving part of the lid open or using a cloth.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Finally, serve your High Protein Tomato Soup as-is or top with grated parmesan and fresh basil for an extra pop of flavor. A sprinkle of pepper adds just the right finishing touch!

Enjoy every spoonful of this creamy goodness!

Pro Tips for Making High Protein Tomato Soup

Making this high protein tomato soup is a breeze, and with a few insider tips, you can elevate it to a whole new level of deliciousness!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can enhance the flavor profile of your soup. They add a vibrant freshness that dried herbs simply can’t replicate.
• Blend in batches carefully: If your blender isn’t large enough to hold all the soup at once, blending in batches is essential. Just remember to cover the lid with a kitchen towel to prevent splatters while allowing steam to escape—safety first!
• Adjust seasoning to taste: After simmering, always taste your soup before serving. You might want to add more salt or pepper based on your personal preference, ensuring each bowl is perfectly seasoned.
• Experiment with different cheeses: While cottage cheese is fantastic for protein, feel free to mix in other cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella for added creaminess and flavor.
• Make it a meal: Consider adding some cooked quinoa or lentils into the soup before blending for an extra protein boost and heartiness.

How to Serve High Protein Tomato Soup

Serving this high protein tomato soup can be as creative as you want! Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a quick solo meal, there are plenty of ways to present this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few fresh leaves on top can brighten up the dish visually and add an aromatic touch.
• Grated parmesan (or nutritional yeast for vegan option): This adds a savory umami flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle right before serving gives the soup a lovely sheen and extra richness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy tomato soup, providing that delightful crunch against the smooth texture.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches: A classic pairing, grilled cheese sandwiches are simple yet comforting and create a fun and nostalgic meal experience.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with fresh vegetables adds brightness and balances out the richness of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers make for a nutritious side that complements the hearty flavors of tomato soup.

Enjoy making your High Protein Tomato Soup! It’s not just about nourishing your body; it’s about bringing warmth and joy into every bowl. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This High Protein Tomato Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch ahead of time and store it for quick lunches or cozy dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Make sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers or bags, as the soup will expand when frozen.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Have questions about this High Protein Tomato Soup? Here are some common queries!

Can I use other types of cheese in this High Protein Tomato Soup?

Yes! While cottage cheese adds a great protein boost and creaminess, you can experiment with other blends like ricotta or even a nut-based cheese if you’re looking for alternatives.

How do I make this High Protein Tomato Soup vegan?

To make this soup vegan-friendly, simply substitute cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative like silken tofu or blended cashews. Adjust seasonings as needed!

What can I serve with High Protein Tomato Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or even a fresh salad. It’s versatile enough to complement many dishes!

How long does it take to prepare High Protein Tomato Soup?

The total time for making this delicious soup is around 40 minutes—10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes of cooking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this cozy High Protein Tomato Soup as much as I do! It’s a delightful way to warm up any day while packing in protein and flavor. Feel free to get creative with your garnishes and pairings! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to savor each spoonful!