Classic Creamy Tomato Soup
A timeless classic, creamy tomato soup is the ultimate comfort food. This version is incredibly simple and relies on quality canned tomatoes for year-round flavour. To make it, gently sauté a chopped onion in butter or olive oil until soft. Add a minced
garlic clove and cook for another minute. Pour in two 28-ounce cans of crushed or whole tomatoes, four cups of chicken or vegetable broth, and a teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for about 25-30 minutes for the flavours to meld. To get that signature creamy texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot, or carefully transfer it in batches to a regular blender. Stir in a half-cup of heavy cream at the end and season with salt and pepper to taste. A pinch of sugar can also help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Hearty and Healthy Lentil Soup
Lentil soup is a powerhouse of nutrition and flavour, and it's substantial enough to keep you full for hours. Start by heating olive oil in a large pot and cooking one chopped onion, two chopped carrots, and two chopped celery stalks until softened, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in one and a half cups of rinsed green or brown lentils, a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, six cups of vegetable broth, a teaspoon of cumin, and a bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 40-50 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Remove the bay leaf before serving. This soup is wonderfully thick and requires no cream or blending, making it a naturally hearty and healthy option.
Silky Roasted Pumpkin Soup
Roasting the pumpkin before adding it to the soup brings out its natural sweetness and creates a deep, rich flavour that you can't get from just boiling. Start by peeling a small sugar pumpkin (about 1.5 pounds) and cutting it into one-inch cubes. Toss the pumpkin cubes and a few unpeeled garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F for about 20 minutes until tender and slightly golden. While the pumpkin is roasting, sauté a chopped onion in a pot until soft. Add the roasted pumpkin and garlic (squeeze the soft garlic from its skin) to the pot along with four cups of vegetable or chicken stock. Let it simmer for 15 minutes, then blend until smooth. For a richer finish, stir in a splash of cream and a pinch of nutmeg.
Beyond Bread: Filling Side Dishes
A great soup deserves a great partner. While a slice of crusty bread is always a good choice, thinking beyond the loaf can transform your soup night into a more complete and exciting meal. The key is to choose a side that complements the soup's texture and flavour, adding substance and contrast. A creamy soup pairs well with something crisp and crunchy, while a brothy soup can be bulked up with a starchy or protein-rich accompaniment. The following ideas are designed to be easy, satisfying, and perfect for dipping, dunking, or enjoying alongside your favourite bowl.
The Ultimate Grilled Cheese
The classic partner for tomato soup, a grilled cheese sandwich is unbeatable. For a gourmet twist, use a combination of cheeses like sharp cheddar and Gruyere for superior melt and flavour. Spreading a thin layer of mayonnaise on the outside of the bread instead of butter results in an evenly golden-brown and crispy crust. You can also elevate your grilled cheese by adding fillings like caramelized onions, a spread of fig jam, or a few slices of crispy bacon. Cut it into strips for easy dipping.
Cheesy Quesadillas
Quick, easy, and endlessly versatile, quesadillas are a fantastic, filling side. Simply sprinkle shredded cheese over a tortilla, add any other fillings you like, top with another tortilla, and cook in a lightly oiled pan until golden on both sides and the cheese is melted. They work especially well with tomato, chicken tortilla, or black bean soup. For extra protein and flavour, add shredded chicken, black beans, or sautéed peppers and onions to the filling.
Savoury Scones or Muffins
A savoury scone offers a flaky, buttery alternative to a standard dinner roll. Cheddar and chive is a classic combination that pairs with almost any soup. These can be made quickly as they don't require any yeast or rising time. Simply mix flour, baking powder, salt, and cold, grated butter. Stir in grated cheese and herbs, then add milk or buttermilk to form a shaggy dough. Pat it out, cut into wedges, and bake until golden. They are especially delicious served warm from the oven.
Roasted Potatoes or Vegetables
For a healthier but still substantial side, roasted vegetables are an excellent choice. Crispy smashed potatoes, sweet potato wedges, or roasted Brussels sprouts can add texture and flavour to your meal. Toss small boiled potatoes with olive oil, smash them flat on a baking sheet, and roast until crispy. This works wonderfully with creamy or cheesy soups. For brothy soups, a side of roasted chickpeas provides a crunchy, protein-packed topping that's a great alternative to croutons.
