High-Protein Cottage Cheese Tomato Soup Recipe

If you are looking for a comforting bowl that doesn’t just satisfy your cravings but also fuels your body, this High-Protein Cottage Cheese Tomato Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It blends the rich, tangy goodness of ripe tomatoes with fragrant herbs and the creamy, protein-packed punch of cottage cheese to create a soup that is both nourishing and delicious. Perfect for a cozy lunch or a light dinner, this vegetarian and gluten-free delight is designed to keep you full and energized without weighing you down.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sometimes the simplest ingredients make the most extraordinary dishes. For this soup, every component plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make each spoonful a celebration.

• 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a smooth richness that carries the flavors and helps soften the onion perfectly.
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped: Brings a subtle sweetness and hearty base to the soup’s flavor profile.
• 6 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a sharp, aromatic punch that awakens your taste buds early on.
• 2 28 oz cans peeled tomatoes: The star ingredient, delivering deep, natural tomato flavor and vibrant color.
• 5 cups vegetable broth: Provides a light, savory liquid base that balances the soup without overpowering.
• 2 tsp sea salt: Enhances all the fresh flavors and spices in the soup.
• A pinch of black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and subtle heat.
• 1 tsp oregano: Infuses an earthy, herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes.
• 1 tsp thyme: Offers a delicate floral quality to elevate the dish.
• 1 cup basil, finely chopped: Brightens the soup with fresh, peppery zest and beautiful green flecks.
• 4 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and lends a luscious depth.
• 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese: The creamy, protein-rich ingredient that transforms this soup into a satiating meal.

How to Make High-Protein Cottage Cheese Tomato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until it turns translucent and fragrant. This step softens the onion and creates a flavorful foundation, unlocking its natural sweetness to harmonize with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Add Garlic for a Flavor Boost

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds. Garlic releases its pungent yet mellow warmth quickly, so keep it moving in the pot to avoid burning while allowing the flavors to deepen.

Step 3: Combine Tomatoes, Broth, and Herbs

Pour in the peeled tomatoes and vegetable broth, then season with sea salt, black pepper, oregano, thyme, chopped basil, and tomato paste. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. This simmering step softens the tomatoes and melds all the herbs and spices, creating a richly flavored soup base.

Step 4: Blend in Cottage Cheese for Creaminess and Protein

Once the soup has simmered and developed its flavors, it’s time to add the protein powerhouse: cottage cheese. Pour part of the soup with some cottage cheese into a blender and puree until smooth. If you don’t have a blender, an immersion blender works beautifully right in the pot. The cottage cheese melts into the soup, lending a creamy texture without overwhelming fat and packing in a serious protein punch.

How to Serve High-Protein Cottage Cheese Tomato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped basil right before serving is all you need to add a burst of vibrant color and fresh herbaceous aroma. For extra flair, you can drizzle a little olive oil or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, garlic croutons, or a light green salad. The crispness of these sides complements the creamy tomato broth and makes the meal feel complete and satisfying. If you want to keep it low-carb, try serving it alongside steamed vegetables for an even heartier experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, dish out this soup in rustic bowls and top each serving with a dollop of cottage cheese or a swirl of cream. You could also serve it in hollowed-out mini bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation that’s as fun to eat as it is to look at. Adding a parmesan crisp on top brings in a delicious crunch and an extra layer of savory flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Its flavors actually deepen after resting overnight, so you might find day two tastes even better! Just give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

The High-Protein Cottage Cheese Tomato Soup Recipe freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. When thawing, keep it in the fridge overnight for the best texture and flavor retention.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Avoid boiling as it can cause the cottage cheese to separate. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use regular cheese instead of cottage cheese?

Cottage cheese is unique in this recipe because it melts into a creamy texture while keeping the soup high in protein and low in fat. Using regular cheese like cheddar or mozzarella would change the flavor and texture significantly, and the soup may become heavier.

Is this soup suitable for vegans?

Since cottage cheese is a dairy product, this recipe is not vegan-friendly. However, you can try substituting with a plant-based cottage cheese alternative or silken tofu for a similar creamy consistency with a boost of plant protein.

How can I make this soup spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or stir in some chopped jalapeños along with the herbs. Cayenne pepper is also a great option for a warming kick.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you have ripe, fresh tomatoes, just peel, seed, and chop about 8-10 medium tomatoes to replace the canned ones. The soup might taste lighter and fresher but keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure the tomatoes break down properly.

Does the soup keep its texture after blending?

Yes! Blending with cottage cheese creates a smooth and creamy soup that maintains a pleasant texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can blend only half and stir the rest back in for some heartiness.

Final Thoughts

This High-Protein Cottage Cheese Tomato Soup Recipe has won a special place in my heart for its warm comfort and surprising nutritional power. It’s perfect for those days when you want something cozy but still packed with goodness. Trust me, once you try this creamy, herb-infused soup, it will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every wholesome, delicious spoonful!

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