Tomato soup was not something I was raised on, but I know many friends who were avid lovers of tomato soup. I have heard many conversations about how good a bowl of Campbell’s Tomato Soup tasted with a warm grilled cheese for dinner, and I agree, it does sound very appealing – I just prefer to prepare my own with fresher ingredients.
Tomato Soup is divine when using fresh tomato puree, however I know many of you don’t have the time or interest to grow and process your own tomatoes. So, I made this recipe easy using good quality tomato puree – it tastes just as good as fresh, and makes a heart-warming bowl of spring splendor.
This recipe is super simple because it has just a few ingredients, most likely in your pantry. The leeks add an extra creamy texture and the fresh dates, a natural sweetness. The flavors are delicate – truly comforting, especially nice while anticipating a pleasantly warm summer.
Ingredients
28 ounces tomato puree, good quality
1 large leek
2 dates, seeded and diced finely
1/3 cup light coconut or whole milk
olive oil
salt
pepper
1/4 cup store-bought pesto sauce, optional
To Prepare:
1. Slice leeks in half and rinse well under water. Slice halves into 1/4 inch half-moon pieces, 2/3 up stalks only.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add leeks and saute for 7 minutes until softened. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper to leeks, and stir to combine. Add tomato puree and a 1/2 cup water, stir to combine. Cook soup for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add dates to soup and stir, cook for 5 minutes. Add coconut milk and stir until combined. Cook soup for 2 minutes and turn off heat. Puree soup with immersion blender, or in batches in a regular blender. If soup is too thick, add water as needed. I like mine slightly thick and chunky, so I can taste the texture of the leeks.
4. Ladle soup into bowls and dollop with pesto for added flavor and a touch of color. Tomato Leek Soup is nice with my Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese Sandwich recipe. Enjoy!
No Comments