When it comes to budget-friendly and delicious meals, tomato soup is a classic choice. With just five simple ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful and comforting bowl of tomato soup that won't break the bank.

Here's a recipe for 5 Ingredient Tomato Soup:

1. Tomatoes: Start with 2 cans of diced tomatoes. Canned tomatoes are inexpensive and readily available all year round. If you prefer, you can also use fresh tomatoes, especially during the summer when they are in season.
2. Onion: Chop one onion and sauté it in a pot with a bit of olive oil until it becomes translucent. The onion adds a savory depth of flavor to the soup.
3. Garlic: Mince 2 cloves of garlic and add them to the pot with the onions. Garlic adds a delicious aroma and enhances the taste of the soup.
4. Vegetable broth: Pour in 3 cups of vegetable broth to give the soup a rich and savory base. You can use store-bought vegetable broth or make your own using vegetable scraps.
5. Herbs and spices: Season the soup with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried basil. Feel free to add other herbs and spices like dried oregano or thyme to customize the flavor to your liking.

Once you have all the ingredients, simply combine them in the pot and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Then, using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth.

Now, your budget-friendly and delicious tomato soup is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it with a side of crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a complete meal.

For additional flavor and texture, you can also garnish the soup with some fresh herbs like basil or parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of sour cream.

References:

• https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/simple-tomato-soup-recipe-2103331
• https://www.budgetbytes.com/5-ingredient-tomato-soup/