Oh, you guys, let’s talk about Tomato Soup Recipe. Just saying the words brings back the coziest memories! I remember the first time I tried making it. I was newly married and wanted to impress my husband. I found some fancy recipe online that called for sun-dried tomatoes (which I’d never cooked with!), fresh herbs I couldn’t even pronounce, and some weird cheese I had to special order. The result? A chunky, oddly flavored mess. He ate it, bless his heart, but I knew I could do better.
Now, after years of tweaking, failing, and finally nailing it, I have a Tomato Soup Recipe that’s not only delicious but also super easy – perfect for busy weeknights. It’s become a family favorite, especially on those chilly autumn evenings, served with a grilled cheese sandwich, of course. My kids practically inhale it! I swear, perfecting this Tomato Soup Recipe has saved me on countless occasions. Come on, let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for the Perfect Tomato Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting classic. Remember, quality ingredients make all the difference!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – I always use extra virgin olive oil for my Tomato Soup Recipe because I think it gives it a richer flavor.
- 1 large onion, chopped – Yellow or white onions work best in this Tomato Soup Recipe.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Freshly minced garlic is key for that aromatic flavor.
- 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes – I always buy the best quality crushed tomatoes I can find; it really makes a difference in the taste of the Tomato Soup Recipe.
- 4 cups vegetable broth – You can use chicken broth if you prefer, but I like the lightness of vegetable broth in this Tomato Soup Recipe.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – I always have a jar of dried basil on hand, but you can use fresh basil if you have it.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – Just a touch of oregano adds a nice depth of flavor to this Tomato Soup Recipe.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – If you like a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. My kids like this Tomato Soup Recipe better without the flakes!
- 1 teaspoon sugar – Just a pinch of sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Don’t skip it!
- Salt and pepper to taste – Season generously to your liking.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional) – For a Creamy tomato soup, stir in some heavy cream at the end. You can also use coconut milk for a vegan option.
When making Tomato Soup Recipe, you can often find great deals on canned tomatoes at discount grocery stores. Stock up when they’re on sale! And here’s a Tomato Soup Recipe trick I learned from my mom: always keep a can of crushed tomatoes in your pantry for those nights when you need a quick and comforting meal. Leftover crushed tomatoes are great in chili, pasta sauces, or even as a base for shakshuka!
How to Make Tomato Soup: Step-by-Step
Follow these simple steps to create a heartwarming bowl of tomato soup that’s sure to impress.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t worry if your Tomato Soup Recipe process starts a little slow; just keep stirring so the onions don’t burn. While that’s going, you can start prepping the garlic.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. I learned the hard way with Tomato Soup Recipe that garlic burns easily, so keep a close eye on it.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. In my kitchen, Tomato Soup Recipe usually takes about 25 minutes to reach its full potential.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cover. Let it simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, to allow the flavors to meld together. While the Tomato Soup Recipe is cooking, I usually get the grilled cheese sandwiches ready or tidy up the kitchen.
- Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. Your Tomato Soup Recipe should smell like warm tomatoes and herbs – so comforting! I learned this from my grandmother when making Tomato Soup Recipe, be very careful when blending hot liquids! Work in batches if necessary.
- Return the blended soup to the pot. If you want a Creamy tomato soup, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Heat through gently.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Sometimes I add a little extra salt or pepper, depending on my mood. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Troubleshooting
Even the best cooks encounter little hiccups. Here are some tips to ensure your tomato soup is perfect every time:
- Too acidic? Add a pinch more sugar or a tablespoon of baking soda to your Tomato Soup Recipe to neutralize the acidity.
- Too thick? Stir in a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency for your Tomato Soup Recipe.
- Not flavorful enough? Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce to deepen the flavor of your Tomato Soup Recipe.
- Time-saver: Use pre-minced garlic and onion to cut down on prep time.
- Extra creamy: Roast the tomatoes before blending for a richer, sweeter flavor. You can find many recipes for Roasted tomato soup online.
I found that when making Tomato Soup Recipe, I learned that I make sure to always have a can of crushed tomatoes in my pantry for those nights when you need a quick and comforting meal. Leftover crushed tomatoes are great in chili, pasta sauces, or even as a base for shakshuka! More tips on how to make Roasted tomato soup can be found here, or even this Creamy Vegan Tomato soup. If you do not like the vegan side, you can find more regular roasted tomato soup here.
Serving Suggestions
Tomato soup is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to make it a complete meal:
Go-to Side Dishes:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that never fails.
- Garlic Bread: For dipping and soaking up all that delicious Tomato Soup Recipe.
- Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness of the soup.
Presentation Tips:
- Garnish with a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil.
- Serve in a rustic bowl for a cozy, homey feel when serving Tomato Soup Recipe.
- Add a dollop of pesto for a burst of fresh flavor to each bowl of Tomato Soup Recipe.
Leftover Ideas:
If you have extra Tomato Soup Recipe, you can use it as a base for pasta sauce, add it to chili, or even freeze it for later. It’s also delicious reheated with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Seasonal Variations:
- Summer: Use fresh, ripe tomatoes from the garden for an even more flavorful Tomato Soup Recipe.
- Fall: Add roasted butternut squash or pumpkin puree for a warm, seasonal twist to your Tomato Soup Recipe.
- Winter: Stir in some smoked paprika for a cozy, smoky flavor in the Tomato Soup Recipe.
My friends always ask for this Tomato Soup Recipe recipe when I make it for them. They can’t believe how simple it is to make something so delicious! This is just as good as my sun dried tomato chicken recipe .
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about making the best tomato soup.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes will give your Tomato Soup Recipe an even brighter flavor. You’ll need about 6-8 medium-sized tomatoes, peeled and chopped. Just simmer them a little longer to break them down. We have all been there where we need to figure out what to do with an abundance of tomatoes!
Q: How do I make this Tomato Soup Recipe vegan?
A: It’s easy! Just make sure you’re using vegetable broth and substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or another plant-based cream. You won’t even notice the difference.
Q: Can I freeze this Tomato Soup Recipe?
A: Yes, you can! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. You know what I do when my Tomato Soup Recipe is frozen, I make a huge batch so I can have it whenever I want!
Q: How do I make this Tomato Soup Recipe thicker?
A: If your soup is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a bit to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to thicken it up. Another options is to try this recipe, it is absolutely delicious!
Q: What other vegetables can I add to this Tomato Soup Recipe?
A: Feel free to get creative! Roasted red peppers, carrots, celery, and zucchini all make great additions to this Tomato Soup Recipe.
Q: How do I store leftovers for this Tomato Soup Recipe?
A: Store any leftover Tomato Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Q: What’s a good variation on this Easy tomato soup?
A: One thing that my family really enjoys is Spinach Tomato Tortellini.
Final Thoughts on My Tomato Soup Recipe
This Tomato Soup Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s a reminder that simple ingredients, when combined with a little love, can create something truly comforting and delicious. It’s a dish that brings my family together and always puts a smile on their faces.
My Tomato Soup Recipe Pro Tips:
- Roast your tomatoes: Roasting the tomatoes before making the soup intensifies their flavor and adds a touch of sweetness.
- Don’t skip the sugar: A pinch of sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and create a more harmonious flavor profile.
- Blend with caution: Be careful when blending hot liquids! Work in batches and vent the blender lid to prevent splattering.
Tomato Soup Recipe Variations:
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little extra kick.
- Cheesy Tomato Soup: Stir in some shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese for a creamy, cheesy delight.
- Creamy Pesto Tomato Soup: Swirl in a spoonful of pesto for a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor.
My husband loves the cheesy version, while the kids prefer the classic Creamy tomato soup with grilled cheese. I personally love the spicy version when I’m feeling a little adventurous. Remember, the best Tomato Soup Recipe is the one you make your own!
I hope you enjoy making this Tomato Soup Recipe as much as my family does. It’s a simple, comforting, and delicious dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home too. And it is a great vegan tomato soup, easy tomato soup, and homemade tomato soup. Happy cooking! I’m sure you will enjoy this Tomato Soup Recipe!
Tomato Soup Recipe
This classic tomato soup is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for a chilly day. Made with fresh tomatoes and simple ingredients, it’s a healthy and delicious meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth.
- Return the soup to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in heavy cream (if using).
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
For a richer flavor, roast the tomatoes before blending. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a swirl of pesto on top.