Tomato soup is a timeless favorite that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. Whether paired with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich or enjoyed on its own, this creamy and flavorful soup is easy to make and always satisfying. Made with simple ingredients like ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a touch of cream, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Quick Recipe Overview
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Serves: 4-6 persons
Health Benefits of Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that supports heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers. The addition of olive oil provides healthy fats, while herbs like basil add vitamins and anti-inflammatory benefits. This soup is low in calories and high in flavor, making it a wholesome choice for any diet.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes (or 6-8 fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Execution
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in the sugar, dried basil, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Add Cream and Season: Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently until warmed through (do not boil).
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Additional Tips
- For a richer flavor, roast fresh tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, and herbs before blending.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
- Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free, vegan-friendly version.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Top with croutons or a drizzle of pesto for extra texture and flavor.
