The Orchard Inn'S Tomato Herb Soup
A comforting tomato herb soup with rich flavors of fresh parsley and basil, perfect for cozy gatherings and satisfying any tomato lover's craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in butter until translucent.
- Add flour to the onion and butter mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Cook lightly and slowly to eliminate raw flour taste.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Add chicken stock, chopped parsley, and dried basil to the mixture.
- In a large stockpot, blend the roux with the canned tomatoes and tomato juice.
- Heat the mixture to boiling, stirring frequently.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve piping hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier soup, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you're in a pinch, chicken stock can be replaced with vegetable stock for a vegetarian option. Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried basil for a brighter flavor. Additionally, sauté garlic with the onion for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a slice of crusty bread for dipping. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or any of your favorite chicken recipes, like Chicken Le Marie. Garnish with fresh Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of additional parsley for a lovely presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be sure to cover the bowl and stir halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The Orchard Inn'S Tomato Herb Soup contains roughly 1349 calories, with 25g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (200% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (125% of the Daily Value), and potassium (87% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1204mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made a day ahead. Just allow it to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving, and be aware that the soup may thicken; add a splash of milk or stock to reach your desired consistency.
Is it possible to freeze this soup?
While you can freeze the soup, the texture may change slightly upon thawing due to the dairy. If you plan to freeze, consider omitting the milk and adding it during reheating for the best consistency. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
To elevate the flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. You can also mix in roasted vegetables or cooked protein like shredded chicken. These additions will complement the soup well and create a more filling dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).