Tomato soup is a comforting classic that’s simple to make and flavorful. You can create a delicious and warming bowl of soup with just a few ingredients. This Easy Tomato Soup Recipe is perfect for lunch, dinner, or any time you want something quick and satisfying.
Why We Love This Easy Tomato Soup Recipes
We love this Easy Tomato Soup Recipe because it’s simple, quick, and packed with fresh, vibrant flavours. Combining tomatoes, garlic, and herbs creates a warm, comforting dish everyone can enjoy. It’s a recipe for busy days when you need something nutritious and delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 cups canned diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creamier texture)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar. Cook for 5 minutes, letting the flavours blend.
- Add the broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth. (If using a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches.)
- Return the soup to the pot, stir in the heavy cream (if using), and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
Variations
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Roasted Tomato Soup: Roast the tomatoes in the oven with olive oil and garlic before blending for a richer flavour.
- Vegan Tomato Soup: Omit the heavy cream and use coconut milk or cashew cream for a vegan version of the soup.
- Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese: Pair your tomato soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.
Cooking Notes
- Blending: For a smoother texture, blend the soup until it’s completely smooth. You can also leave it slightly chunky if you prefer more texture.
- Sweetness: Some tomatoes can be acidic, so adding a teaspoon of sugar can help balance the flavour. Adjust it according to your taste.
- Storage: Tomato soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool before storing it in an airtight container.
Serving Suggestions
Tomato soup pairs perfectly with a warm, toasted grilled cheese sandwich, a side salad, or crispy croutons. For a heartier meal, serve it with roasted vegetables or a slice of garlic bread.
Tips
- For a smoother soup: If you don’t have an immersion blender, use a regular blender, but be sure to blend the soup in batches and allow it to cool slightly before blending.
- Make it ahead: Tomato soup can be made and stored in the fridge for a few days. The flavours often deepen and improve after sitting.
- Enhance the flavour: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the soup.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
25 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
How to Make the Soup Extra Creamy
To make your tomato soup extra creamy, simply add more cream or milk. You can use heavy cream for a rich and luxurious texture or opt for a lighter version with milk. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut milk is a great substitute that will still provide a creamy texture without the dairy. You can also experiment with adding a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of ricotta cheese to the soup for an extra creamy finish.
Customizing Your Tomato Soup
While this Easy Tomato Soup Recipe is perfect on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Roasted Tomato Soup: Roast the tomatoes and garlic in the oven before adding them to the pot for a deeper, smoky flavor.
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Tomato Lentil Soup: Add cooked red lentils to the soup for added protein and texture.
- Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Blend fresh basil leaves directly into the soup and increase the amount of cream for a richer flavor.
Creative Variations for Tomato Soup
- Roasted Tomato Soup:
- Roast the tomatoes and garlic in the oven before adding them to the pot for a deeper, smoky flavor.
- Spicy Tomato Soup:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Tomato Basil Soup:
- Blend fresh basil leaves directly into the soup and increase the amount of cream for a richer flavor.
- Tomato Lentil Soup:
- Add cooked red lentils to the soup for added protein and texture.
Tips for Perfect Tomato Soup
- Choose Quality Tomatoes: Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor. Canned San Marzano tomatoes are an excellent choice if fresh ones aren’t available.
- Balance the Acidity: A pinch of sugar can help balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme adds a fragrant touch that elevates the soup’s flavor.
- Blend Carefully: Allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to avoid splatters.
Why This Easy Tomato Soup Recipe Is a Must-Try
This Easy Tomato Soup Recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. It’s easy to make and comforting and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you enjoy it with a creamy finish or prefer it dairy-free, this recipe offers a delicious and versatile option for everyone. And, of course, the combination of tomato soup and grilled cheese is always a winning duo.
Perfect Pairings for Tomato Soup
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic companion to tomato soup, perfect for dipping.
- Croutons: Add a crunchy texture by sprinkling homemade croutons on top.
- Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light, balanced meal.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Tomato Soup
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave for a quick meal. If the soup thickens upon sitting, just add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Peel, core, and chop them before cooking. You may need to cook them longer to break them into a sauce-like consistency.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
How can I make the soup spicier?
To add heat, include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when cooking the onion and garlic.
Conclusion
This Easy Tomato Soup Recipe is a simple, flavorful dish that can be enjoyed anytime. It’s quick to prepare, and the variations make it easy to customize to your taste. Whether you serve it with grilled cheese or want it alone, this tomato soup will surely satisfy you.
