Tomato Rice Soup Recipe

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
2. Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer. If you like your soup a bit sweeter to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, add a tablespoon of sugar. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
3. Simmer: Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to fully cook. The soup should be fragrant and flavorful by this point.
4. Add the Rice: Once the soup has simmered, add the cooked rice to the pot and stir it in. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the rice to heat through and absorb the soup’s flavors.
5. Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Customization:

• Add protein: For a heartier soup, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or beans for extra protein.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat to the soup.
• Use fresh tomatoes: If you have fresh tomatoes, chop them up and simmer them in the broth for a fresher flavor. You may need to blend them if you prefer a smoother texture.
• Rice variations: You can experiment with different types of rice, such as wild rice or even quinoa, for added texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Comforting & Filling: The combination of rice and vegetables creates a hearty, satisfying soup that can be enjoyed as a main course or side.
• Quick & Easy: With just a few basic ingredients, this soup comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust this recipe based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal to enjoy on a chilly day or a light but filling dish, Tomato Rice Soup is the perfect choice. It’s a nutritious and flavorful way to enjoy the goodness of tomatoes and rice in one bowl!