Stepping into my cozy kitchen, I was instantly enveloped in the warm aroma of tomatoes simmering gently on the stove. This is exactly the kind of comfort I seek during chilly nights: a steaming bowl of High Protein Tomato Soup with Cottage Cheese. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a nourishing meal that not only satisfies the heart but also packs a protein punch, making it perfect for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game. With simple ingredients and effortless preparation, this cozy soup is ideal for meal prep or a comforting weeknight supper. Are you ready to embrace a deliciously creamy experience that will warm your soul on even the coldest days?
Why is this tomato soup a must-try?
Creamy Texture: Blending cottage cheese into the soup creates a luxuriously smooth and velvety consistency that elevates the classic tomato flavor.
High Protein Boost: With a solid 11g of protein per serving, this recipe is not just comforting but also helps meet your dietary goals with minimal effort.
Quick Preparation: In just 40 minutes, you can prepare a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or opt for different broths, making this soup versatile enough to suit every palate, just like a comforting Tortellini Soup or a nourishing Vegetable Soup.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This soup is sure to be a hit, so whether you’re gathering around the table or enjoying a solo night in, it’s bound to impress!
High Protein Tomato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Olive Oil – Provides healthy fat and flavor; can use any mild vegetable oil if desired.
• Onion (diced) – Adds sweetness and depth; substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors in the soup; adjust based on dietary needs.
• Minced Garlic – Offers aromatic flavor; garlic powder can be used if fresh isn’t available.
• Tomato Paste – Contributes rich tomato flavor; can be replaced with fresh or canned diced tomatoes for a chunkier soup.
• Dried Basil – Adds herbal notes; fresh basil can be used if available, adjusting amount to taste.
• Sugar – Balances acidity of tomatoes; maple syrup or honey can serve as alternatives.
• Canned Whole Tomatoes (2 cans, 28 oz each) – The base for the soup, providing moisture and flavor; crushed tomatoes can be used instead.
• Low Sodium Vegetable Broth (3 cups) – Adds depth and volume; any broth may be substituted.
For the Creamy Finish
• Cottage Cheese (1½ cups, 2% MF) – Increases protein content and creaminess; cream cheese or silken tofu can be used for a different texture.
• Pepper (to taste) – Provides seasoning; red pepper flakes could add heat for variation.
Optional Garnishes
• Parmesan – Enhances presentation and flavor; fresh basil adds a lovely touch as well.
• Fresh Basil – A bright finish that complements the flavors beautifully.
Dive into this High Protein Tomato Soup experience with these simple ingredients and prepare for a heartwarming meal that nourishes both body and soul!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for High Protein Tomato Soup
Step 1: Start with the Base
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 1 diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until it turns soft and translucent. The inviting aroma will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for your hearty High Protein Tomato Soup.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and a pinch of kosher salt, cooking for an additional minute. You want to release the garlic’s fragrant oils without burning it. This step enhances the depth of flavor in your soup, building a comforting base that will shine through in every spoonful.
Step 3: Enhance with Tomato Flavors
Next, deglaze the pot with a splash of low sodium vegetable broth if necessary. Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Stir these together and let them cook for 1 minute, until the mixture is aromatic and well combined, enriching the overall tomato flavor.
Step 4: Incorporate the Tomatoes and Broth
Add two cans of whole tomatoes (28 oz each) along with their juices into the pot. Pour in 3 cups of low sodium vegetable broth and give everything a gentle stir. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting and rich soup base.
Step 5: Blend until Smooth
After the 20-minute simmer, carefully transfer the soup to a blender. Add 1½ cups of cottage cheese to the blender to boost the protein content and create a delightful creaminess. Blend until smooth, working in batches if necessary, and be sure to leave a small opening in the lid to prevent steam buildup and splatter.
Step 6: Final Touches and Serve
Once blended, return the creamy High Protein Tomato Soup to the pot. Season with freshly cracked pepper to taste, adjusting salt if needed. Serve warm, garnished with optional parmesan cheese and fresh basil for an extra touch of flavor. Your cozy, comforting soup is ready to be enjoyed!
What to Serve with High Protein Tomato Soup
Looking to create a delightful meal around this creamy, protein-packed soup? Let’s explore the perfect pairings that will elevate your dining experience!
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Crusty Bread: The perfect vessel for dipping, a warm, crusty loaf adds texture and enhances the cozy ambiance of the meal.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic duo, melty cheese between golden-brown bread adds a satisfying crunch that perfectly contrasts the soup’s smoothness.
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Fresh Salad: A simple side salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette brightens the meal and balances the richness of the soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots and zucchini offer a sweet and earthy flavor, complementing the tomato base beautifully.
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Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy, cheesy biscuits add a wonderful fluffiness to your meal, ideal for scooping up every last drop of soup.
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Wine Pairing: A glass of light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir, adds fruity notes that harmonize with the soup’s rich tomato flavor.
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Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs brings a delightful texture and subtle flavor, making every bite a delight.
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Mini Quiches: These savory bites, filled with veggies and cheese, provide a delightful contrast to the soup and are perfect for a fuller meal.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp adds a sweet, comforting end to your cozy meal, harmonizing warm spices with crunchy oats.
With these wonderful accompaniments, your High Protein Tomato Soup will shine as the star of a heartfelt meal!
Expert Tips for High Protein Tomato Soup
Blend Smoothly: Ensure you leave a small opening in the blender lid while blending to let steam escape and avoid splatters.
Prevent Curdling: Blend the cottage cheese with a cup of the soup first before mixing it back in to ensure a smooth texture.
Taste as You Go: Adjust salt and sugar throughout cooking to balance the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly for your palate.
Customizable Nutrition: Feel free to toss in extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrients and variation in your high protein tomato soup.
Storage Wisdom: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days; reheating on the stove is preferred for best texture.
How to Store and Freeze High Protein Tomato Soup
Fridge: Store leftover High Protein Tomato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: While freezing is not recommended due to cottage cheese texture changes upon thawing, if you must, pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When reheating from the fridge or freezer, add a splash of vegetable broth for a creamier consistency and stir regularly to ensure even heating.
Serving Tip: Always taste and adjust seasonings after reheating, as flavors may mellow during storage.
Make Ahead Options
These High Protein Tomato Soup with Cottage Cheese are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the soup base up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Simply follow the first four steps of the recipe and refrigerate the blended soup (without the cottage cheese) in an airtight container. To maintain its creamy texture, blend in the cottage cheese just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove, adjusting seasoning as needed, and serve warm with your favorite garnishes. This way, you’ll have a cozy, nourishing meal ready with minimal effort!
High Protein Tomato Soup Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this comforting soup to suit your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Use almond or cashew cream instead of cottage cheese for a non-dairy twist. It makes the soup equally creamy without the cheese.
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Add Extra Veggies: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or diced bell peppers. These vibrant veggies not only boost nutrition but also bring a fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
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Heartier Blend: Incorporate a cup of cooked lentils for an extra protein punch. This addition not only enriches the soup but also makes it even more filling.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to give the soup a nice heat. It’s a small change that can add a delightful zing to each spoonful.
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Chunkier Variation: Swap the canned whole tomatoes for diced tomatoes or add some roasted cherry tomatoes for a sweet flavor burst. This gives you a delightful texture and delightful bites throughout the soup.
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Broth Swap: If you’re not a fan of vegetable broth, feel free to use chicken broth instead. This change will add a deeper flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste of your High Protein Tomato Soup.
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Herb Infusion: Try blending in fresh basil or oregano during the last few minutes of cooking for a fresh herbaceous note. This brightens the soup and adds layers of flavor, reminiscent of your favorite Italian dishes.
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Creamy Alternative: For a richer finish, add a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt after blending. This elevates the creaminess, making the soup truly decadent.
You can also explore other scrumptious soups, like a comforting Potsticker Soup or a heartwarming bowl of Roasted Poblano Soup, all while indulging in delicious creativity!
High Protein Tomato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of tomatoes should I use for this soup?
For this high protein tomato soup, canned whole tomatoes are recommended as they provide moisture and flavor. However, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes if you prefer a chunkier texture. Look for whole tomatoes that are bright red and free from dark spots to ensure peak freshness.
How should I store leftover High Protein Tomato Soup?
After enjoying your delicious soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Can I freeze High Protein Tomato Soup?
Freezing this soup is generally not recommended due to potential texture changes in the cottage cheese. However, if you decide to freeze it, ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion during freezing.
What should I do if my soup is too acidic?
If you find your soup too acidic, you can add a pinch of sugar or a splash of maple syrup to balance the flavors, as both help mitigate the acidity of tomatoes. Additionally, a splash of cream or more cottage cheese can also soften the acidity while enhancing creaminess.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! To create a dairy-free version of this high protein tomato soup, you can replace cottage cheese with silken tofu blended until smooth. Alternatively, you could use a dairy-free cream cheese option for a similar creamy consistency.
What are good garnishes for this soup?
For garnishing your High Protein Tomato Soup, consider adding freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil for a burst of flavor. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also elevate your serving, adding both visual appeal and an extra kick.
Delicious High Protein Tomato Soup for Cozy Meal Prep
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and a pinch of kosher salt, cooking for an additional minute.
- Next, add tomato paste, sugar, and dried basil. Stir and cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Add canned tomatoes with juices and vegetable broth, stirring gently. Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes on low heat.
- After simmering, carefully transfer the soup to a blender. Add cottage cheese and blend until smooth.
- Return blended soup to the pot, season with pepper, and serve warm garnished with parmesan and fresh basil.
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