Tomato Soup
Highlighted under: Family Favorites
A warm, comforting bowl of tomato soup is perfect for chilly days. This classic recipe combines ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a touch of cream for a velvety finish.
This tomato soup recipe is a family favorite, passed down through generations. It's not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying. Featuring fresh and flavorful ingredients, this soup is perfect as a starter or paired with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combination.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, tangy flavor that warms the soul
- Creamy texture with a hint of sweetness
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
The Benefits of Homemade Tomato Soup
Making tomato soup from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a fresher and healthier option compared to store-bought varieties. By using ripe, in-season tomatoes and high-quality broth, you can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your soup. Plus, you can adjust the seasoning to your personal taste, making it a truly customizable dish.
Homemade tomato soup is also a great way to utilize surplus tomatoes from your garden or local farmers' market. This recipe not only reduces food waste but also celebrates the natural flavors of the ingredients, resulting in a vibrant and delicious dish that highlights the best of what nature has to offer.
Serving Suggestions
Tomato soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal that evokes childhood memories. The creamy, tangy soup complements the gooey cheese perfectly, making for a satisfying combination that’s hard to resist.
For a lighter option, try pairing your soup with a fresh salad or some crusty artisan bread. A sprinkle of croutons on top adds texture, while a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the dish even further. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a cozy dinner, these pairings will enhance your tomato soup experience.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover tomato soup, storing it is easy. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to label the container with the date for easy reference.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. You can warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If you’ve frozen the soup, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. For added creaminess, stir in a splash of cream or a bit of broth while reheating.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Tomato Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
Finish with Cream
Stir in the heavy cream if using, and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through and serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, try using fresh tomatoes in season or adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.
Tips for Perfect Tomato Soup
To achieve the best flavor in your tomato soup, use ripe, fresh tomatoes when they are in season. However, canned tomatoes can also produce fantastic results, especially if they are San Marzano or other high-quality varieties. The key is to choose tomatoes that are sweet and free from additives.
Don’t skip the aromatics! Sautéing onions and garlic before adding the tomatoes creates a flavorful base that enhances the overall taste of the soup. Allowing these ingredients to soften and caramelize slightly brings out their natural sweetness, resulting in a richer, more complex flavor profile.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize your tomato soup. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a pleasant heat, while fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can complement the tomato's natural acidity. A splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice can also add brightness and depth.
For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider adding roasted vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots for added sweetness and nutrition. You can even incorporate ingredients like lentils or chickpeas for a heartier version that packs more protein.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
→ Can I freeze tomato soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with tomato soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, croutons, or a fresh green salad.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
Simply omit the heavy cream or substitute it with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
Tomato Soup
A warm, comforting bowl of tomato soup is perfect for chilly days. This classic recipe combines ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a touch of cream for a velvety finish.
Created by: Natalie Warren
Recipe Type: Family Favorites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Tomato Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
Stir in the heavy cream if using, and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through and serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, try using fresh tomatoes in season or adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 4g