Delicious Tomato Soup

Are you looking for a yummy, hearty soup to warm you up this chilly season? Look no further! This Tomato Soup from Giada on The Food Network is so tasty and truly easy to make. I made a few minor tweaks to fit our needs, but nothing too major. We served up with a few grilled cheese sandwiches and had a perfect, semi-homemade, inexpensive dinner!

Hearty Tomato Soup with Lemon and Rosemary

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, peeled and chopped
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 15-ounce can cannellini (white) beans, drained and rinsed
1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
3 cups vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
2 teaspoons rosemary
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2/3 cup sour cream
Zest of one lemon

In a large soup pot, heat your oil over medium heat. Toss in your onion, carrots, and garlic and cook until tender.

Now, add your beans (drained and rinsed-don't forget!), tomatoes, broth, bay leaf, 1 teaspoon rosemary, and red pepper flakes. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 30 minutes, covered. Isn't it just so colorful...yum!

Now, here is the fun part! Remove your soup from the heat, get out your hand blender and puree the soup. Make sure to remove your bay leaf beforehand! 

Return the soup to the oven and keep warm over low heat. Season with salt and pepper.

For the finishing touch, fold your lemon zest and remaining teaspoon of rosemary into your sour cream in a separate bowl.

To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and dollop each with the lemon rosemary cream. Then, prepare for goodness!

The soup has a bit of a kick but, have no fear, the lemon/rosemary cream addition really balances it out. So yummy and perfect for that chilly day! Enjoy!