Tomato Herb Soup

By Beth Moncel

Use basic pantry staples to create this quick and easy Tomato Herb Soup. It's thick, rich, flavorful, and perfect for grilled cheese dipping!

Ingredients

• 2 cloves garlic ($0.16)
• 1/4 cup olive oil ($0.64)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano ($0.05)
• 1/2 tsp dried basil ($0.05)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme ($0.05)
• 1/4 tsp dried rosemary ($0.03)
• 1 pinch red pepper (crushed, $0.02)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly cracked, $0.03)
• 1 6oz. can tomato paste ($0.39)
• 1 Tbsp brown sugar ($0.02)
• 1 28oz. can crushed tomatoes ($0.79)
• 3 cups vegetable broth ($0.39)

Instructions

1. 1

   Mince the garlic and add it to a sauce pot along with the olive oil, oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, red pepper flakes, and freshly cracked pepper. Turn the heat on to medium-low and sauté for about 2 minutes, or until the garlic has softened.

2. 2

   Add the tomato paste and brown sugar. Stir until everything is mixed (the oil may stay partially separated). Cook the mixture while stirring continuously for 3-5 minutes, or until the tomato paste takes on a darker, almost burgundy hue.

3. 3

   Add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Whisk the mixture together until smooth. Turn the heat up to medium and heat through, stirring occasionally. Serve hot.