Tomato Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This comforting Tomato Soup is perfect for chilly days, bringing warmth and flavor to your table.
Tomato Soup is a classic dish that brings a sense of nostalgia and comfort. Perfect as a starter or paired with a grilled cheese sandwich, it’s a favorite for all ages.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich tomato flavor with a hint of basil
- Creamy texture that delights the palate
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
The Benefits of Homemade Tomato Soup
Making tomato soup at home allows you to control the ingredients, resulting in a fresher, more flavorful dish. Unlike store-bought versions, which may contain preservatives and added sugars, this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients. You can adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, ensuring that every bowl is just the way you like it.
Homemade tomato soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. When you prepare this soup from scratch, you preserve those health benefits while creating a satisfying meal that warms both body and soul.
Perfect Pairings for Your Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. One of the classic accompaniments is a grilled cheese sandwich, which adds a delightful crunch and gooeyness. The combination of the creamy soup and cheesy sandwich creates a comforting meal that is hard to resist.
For a healthier option, consider serving your tomato soup with a fresh garden salad. The crisp vegetables and tangy dressing will balance the richness of the soup, making for a well-rounded meal. Additionally, crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of that delicious tomato goodness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your tomato soup is easy! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
When you're ready to enjoy your soup again, reheating is simple. If frozen, let the soup thaw overnight in the refrigerator. For reheating, you can use the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If the soup has thickened, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water will help restore its creamy texture.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Make sure to check the freshness of your ingredients for the best flavor!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a delicious Tomato Soup.
Cook the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juice and add the vegetable broth. Stir in the dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Blend the Soup
Once simmering, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. For a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious Tomato Soup!
Pair your soup with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal!
Nutritional Information
This tomato soup recipe is not only comforting but also nutritious. Each serving is low in calories while being high in vitamins and minerals. The tomatoes provide a healthy dose of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function, while the olive oil adds beneficial fats that promote heart health.
If you choose to include heavy cream, it will enhance the richness of the soup, but you can also keep it light by omitting it or substituting with a plant-based cream. This allows you to tailor the soup to meet dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
Customization Ideas
One of the great things about tomato soup is its adaptability. Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Experimenting with different herbs, like oregano or thyme, can also elevate the soup’s taste.
For a twist, try incorporating cooked pasta or rice into the soup for a heartier meal. You can also top your bowl with croutons, shredded cheese, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to add extra layers of flavor and texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You'll need about 2 pounds, peeled and chopped.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
Simply omit the heavy cream or substitute it with coconut milk.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, Tomato Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
→ What can I serve with Tomato Soup?
Grilled cheese sandwiches, croutons, or a fresh salad are great accompaniments.
Tomato Soup
This comforting Tomato Soup is perfect for chilly days, bringing warmth and flavor to your table.
Created by: Heidi Lawson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
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. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juice and add the vegetable broth. Stir in the dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Once simmering, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. For a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious Tomato Soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g