Why You’ll Love This Tomato Soup Recipe
This tomato soup recipe is a go-to favorite for anyone craving a comforting meal that’s both simple and full of flavor. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Let me share why this version stands out and why you’ll keep coming back to it.
First, the ease of preparation means you can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy parents or working professionals. It’s packed with health benefits too, like vitamins from fresh ingredients that boost your immunity and fit into a diet-conscious lifestyle. Plus, its versatility lets you tweak it for different needs, such as vegan or low-calorie options, while still delivering that rich, savory taste.
Beyond the basics, this recipe creates a distinctive flavor with ripe tomatoes and herbs that make every bowl feel special. Whether you’re a student looking for quick dinners or a food enthusiast experimenting in the kitchen, it’s adaptable and delicious. I remember making this on a chilly day and pairing it with a simple sandwich it turned an ordinary evening into something memorable around the table.
Key Features That Make It Special
- Minimal ingredients keep things straightforward and budget-friendly.
- Low in calories at about 222 per serving, with a good balance of 22 grams of carbohydrates, 7 grams of protein, and 14 grams of fat.
- Supports various dietary preferences while keeping the comforting essence intact.
To learn more about similar comforting recipes, check out our creamy crab and shrimp seafood bisque for another easy option.
Jump To
- 1. Why You’ll Love This Tomato Soup Recipe
- 2. Essential Ingredients for Tomato Soup Recipe
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Tomato Soup Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Tomato Soup Recipe
- 5. Mastering Tomato Soup Recipe: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store Tomato Soup Recipe: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Tomato Soup Recipe
- 8. Tomato Soup Recipe
Essential Ingredients for Tomato Soup Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious tomato soup. This recipe focuses on fresh, simple items that build a creamy, flavorful base. Let’s break it down so you can shop with ease and understand what makes this soup so tasty.
In this section, I’ll list out all the ingredients exactly as needed. Remember, using precise measurements ensures the best results every time. Here’s the full structured list based on the recipe:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 yellow onions (about 3 cups finely chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (1 tablespoon minced)
- 56 ounces crushed tomatoes (two 28-ounce cans with juice)
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (adjust to taste)
- 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
This list covers everything required, making it straightforward for home cooks like you to follow along. For special dietary options, you can swap items as needed, but I’ll cover that in another section.
How to Prepare the Perfect Tomato Soup Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part making the soup. This step-by-step guide is designed to be simple and straightforward, even if you’re new to cooking. Follow along, and you’ll have a warm bowl ready in no time.
First, melt the butter in a nonreactive pot over medium heat to avoid any metallic taste. Then, sauté the chopped onions for 10-12 minutes until they’re softened and golden, which adds a sweet depth to the soup. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute to bring out its aroma without burning it.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes with their juice, chicken stock, chopped basil, sugar, and black pepper to build the base. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer it partially covered for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Use an immersion blender or blend in batches to get a smooth texture, then return it to the pot.
Finishing Touches
Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, and bring it back to a simmer while adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The total preparation time is about 5 minutes, with cooking taking 25 minutes, so you’re done in 30 minutes flat. Serve it hot, garnished with extra parmesan and basil for a nice pop of color and flavor.
One tip I always share is to taste as you go, especially when balancing acidity with sugar and cream. If you’d like more ideas for quick meals, explore our street corn chicken rice bowl for a complementary dish.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Tomato Soup Recipe
Everyone’s tastes and needs are different, so customizing this tomato soup is a breeze. Whether you’re vegan or just watching your calories, small changes can make a big difference without losing that creamy goodness. Let’s look at some easy swaps to fit your lifestyle.
For protein and main components, you can replace chicken stock with vegetable broth if you’re going vegan, or add cooked lentils for extra plant-based protein. In terms of vegetables and seasonings, try using coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free creaminess.
- Adjust seasonings with smoked paprika or fresh herbs like thyme for new flavors.
- Make it spicier by adding red chili flakes during cooking.
- These modifications help with allergen concerns and let you adapt for different diets.
Remember, the goal is to keep it delicious and approachable, just like my blog promises.
Mastering Tomato Soup Recipe: Advanced Tips and Variations
Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you can level up your tomato soup with some pro techniques. Roasting the tomatoes and garlic before adding them deepens the flavor and sweetness, turning a simple recipe into something extraordinary. Flavor variations like adding oregano or a splash of balsamic vinegar can add complexity and excitement.
Presentation is key too try garnishing with a swirl of cream, fresh herbs, or toasted croutons to make it look as good as it tastes. For make-ahead options, prepare the soup base ahead and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, or freeze portions for quick meals later. These strategies make this recipe a versatile choice for any occasion.
| Tip Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Pro Technique | Roast ingredients for richer taste |
| Variation | Add herbs for extra flavor |
| Storage | Freeze in portions for convenience |
For a chunkier texture, skip the blending step altogether it’s a simple way to change things up based on what you like.
How to Store Tomato Soup Recipe: Best Practices
Storing your tomato soup properly keeps it fresh and tasty for later. Whether you’re meal prepping or have leftovers, following these steps helps maintain that creamy goodness. Let’s go over the basics to make sure nothing goes to waste.
Refrigerate the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and ready to reheat. For longer storage, cool it completely and freeze in portions using freezer-safe bags or containers, which can last up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw it overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat while stirring to avoid burning.
- Portion it into individual servings for easy grab-and-go meals.
- This method works great for weekly planning and batch cooking.
By doing this, your soup stays flavorful and safe, making it a smart choice for busy lifestyles.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Tomato Soup Recipe
Can I use canned whole tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes in tomato soup?
Yes, canned whole peeled tomatoes can be used as a substitute. To get the right texture, pulse the whole tomatoes in a food processor or crush them by hand before adding to the soup. This ensures a smooth consistency similar to crushed tomatoes. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning, as canned whole tomatoes may vary in flavor and acidity.
Is it okay to use dried basil instead of fresh basil in tomato soup?
You can replace fresh basil with about 1 tablespoon of dried basil. Add the dried basil when you add the tomatoes to allow it to soften and release its flavor. Dried basil works well cooked into the soup but is not recommended as a garnish, since it won’t provide the same fresh aroma or appearance.
Can I make tomato soup with fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but you’ll need to prepare them by blanching, peeling, and crushing, which can be time-consuming. This method delivers a fresher flavor but requires extra prep work. If convenience is a priority, using canned crushed tomatoes is an easier and reliable option.
What type of broth or stock should I use for tomato soup?
Chicken stock is a popular choice for tomato soup due to its rich flavor that complements the tomatoes well. For a vegetarian or vegan version, vegetable broth works perfectly and provides enough depth to the soup without animal products. Choose low-sodium stock to better control the seasoning.
How can I fix tomato soup if it tastes too sour or acidic?
If your tomato soup tastes too acidic, try simmering it in a non-reactive pot and add a small amount of sugar (start with one teaspoon) to balance the acidity. You can also add a splash of cream or butter to mellow the flavor and create a richer texture. Adjust gradually and taste frequently to reach the desired balance.
Tomato Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
🍅 Creamy Tomato Soup offers a luscious, comforting meal that’s both simple to make and packed with rich flavors.
🥄 This recipe balances fresh basil and creamy parmesan, making it a perfect cozy dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 yellow onions (about 3 cups finely chopped)
3 garlic cloves (1 tablespoon minced)
56 ounces crushed tomatoes (two 28-ounce cans with juice)
2 cups chicken stock
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (plus extra for garnish)
1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (adjust to taste)
1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
1-First, melt the butter in a nonreactive pot over medium heat to avoid any metallic taste. Then, sauté the chopped onions for 10-12 minutes until they’re softened and golden, which adds a sweet depth to the soup. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute to bring out its aroma without burning it.
2-Stir in the crushed tomatoes with their juice, chicken stock, chopped basil, sugar, and black pepper to build the base. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer it partially covered for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Use an immersion blender or blend in batches to get a smooth texture, then return it to the pot.
3-Finishing Touches Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, and bring it back to a simmer while adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The total preparation time is about 5 minutes, with cooking taking 25 minutes, so you’re done in 30 minutes flat. Serve it hot, garnished with extra parmesan and basil for a nice pop of color and flavor.
Notes
🍳 Use a nonreactive pot to avoid any metallic flavors.
🍬 Balance the soup’s acidity by adjusting sugar and cream quantities.
🌿 Substitute dried basil if fresh basil isn’t available.
🍞 Pair this soup with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic combo.
🥄 Skip blending for a chunkier, rustic tomato soup texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Sautéing and Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 344 grams
- Calories: 222
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Creamy Tomato Soup, Easy Tomato Soup, Comfort Soup, Tomato Basil Soup