Tomato soup is the perfect comfort food, and this easy recipe makes it simple to enjoy anytime. With just a few basic ingredients like fresh tomatoes, onion, and garlic, you can create a creamy, delicious soup in no time. Whether it’s for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this homemade tomato soup is a warm and satisfying option that’s sure to please.
Why We Love This tomato soup easy
There’s something about a bowl of easy tomato soup that instantly feels like home. Whether it’s the soothing warmth or the comforting taste of fresh tomatoes, this soup is perfect for any occasion. Here’s why we absolutely love this recipe:
- Quick and Simple: This tomato soup recipe doesn’t require hours of prep or cooking. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a bowl of creamy goodness ready to enjoy. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal in a hurry.
- Minimal Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients—fresh tomatoes, onion, garlic, and a bit of broth—you can create something truly delicious. It’s a great way to make the most of simple pantry staples.
- Comfort in Every Bite: There’s a reason tomato soup is a classic. The rich, velvety texture and the perfect balance of savory flavors bring a sense of comfort, whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or a snack.
- Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust this recipe to your taste. Add a little cream for extra richness, stir in some fresh herbs like basil or thyme, or throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. The options are endless!
- Healthy & Light: While it’s creamy, this soup is also surprisingly light, making it a great choice for those looking for a nourishing meal without the heaviness. You can even go dairy-free by swapping the cream for coconut milk or a plant-based alternative.
Ingredients
Fresh tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes give the best flavor. If not available, canned tomatoes work, too.
Onion: Onion adds sweetness and balances the tomatoes’ acidity.
Garlic: Garlic adds depth and enhances the flavor.
Vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is the base, giving a savory flavor. Chicken broth can be used instead.
Olive oil: Olive oil is used to sauté the onion and garlic, adding flavor.
Dried basil: Dried basil gives classic tomato soup flavor. Fresh basil can be used instead.
Salt: Salt enhances the flavors. Adjust to your taste.
Black pepper: Black pepper adds heat and balances the soup’s sweetness.
Heavy cream (optional): Heavy cream makes the soup creamy. Use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Fresh basil leaves (optional): Fresh basil can be used as a garnish for extra flavor.
Instructions
Making this easy tomato soup is simpler than you might think, and it’s a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. Follow these simple steps for a creamy, flavorful soup that’s ready in no time.
Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the tomatoes.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a pot, sauté onion for 5 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Cook the Tomatoes: Add diced tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Add the Broth and Seasonings: Pour in broth, then add basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth. For a chunkier texture, blend less.
Add Cream (Optional): Stir in heavy cream for richness, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust salt or pepper if needed.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve in bowls, garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy with bread or grilled cheese.
Pro Tips
To elevate your easy tomato soup and ensure it’s nothing short of perfection, here are some handy tips to make the process even smoother and the flavor even better:
Use ripe, in-season tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes will give your soup the best flavor. Look for tomatoes that are vibrant red and slightly soft to the touch for optimal sweetness and juiciness. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, high-quality canned tomatoes will work too.
Sauté the aromatics well: Don’t rush the process of sautéing the onion and garlic. Let them soften and develop their full flavor before adding the tomatoes. This step builds a strong flavor base for the soup.
Blending for texture: For an ultra-smooth texture, make sure you blend the soup thoroughly with an immersion blender or regular blender. If you prefer a more rustic soup, blend it for a shorter amount of time to leave some tomato chunks in the mix.
Adjust seasoning to taste: The basil, salt, and pepper are essential, but feel free to tweak them based on your preferences. Add a bit more salt if you like your soup savory or a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
Try a splash of balsamic vinegar: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar to the soup before blending. It enhances the sweetness of the tomatoes and adds a subtle tang that really brings the soup to life.
Make it creamy (your way): If you love a creamy finish, heavy cream is a classic choice. However, for a lighter version, consider swapping it with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative for a dairy-free version.
Add some heat: If you’re a fan of spice, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce at the end of cooking. It adds a delightful kick that perfectly complements the smoothness of the soup.
Variations
One of the best things about this easy tomato soup is its versatility. Whether you’re in the mood for something a bit different or want to switch things up based on what you have in the kitchen, there are plenty of ways to customize this recipe. Here are some variations to consider:
Add Roasted Garlic for Extra Flavor:
Roasting the garlic before adding it to the soup can bring out its sweetness and depth. Simply wrap the garlic cloves in foil, roast them at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, and then add them to the soup. The roasted garlic will add a rich, caramelized flavor to the base.
Spicy Tomato Soup:
For those who like a little heat, try adding some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper during the cooking process. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick just before serving.
Make It Vegan:
To make this soup vegan-friendly, simply swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or another plant-based cream. Use vegetable broth if you haven’t already, and skip the cream for a lighter, dairy-free option.
Serving Suggestions
For a simple yet satisfying pairing, serve your easy tomato soup with a slice of crusty bread. The bread’s chewy texture and slight crispiness perfectly complement the smooth, rich soup. You can go for a classic sourdough or ciabatta, both of which add a subtle tang and enhance the overall flavor of the soup. Dip the bread into the soup for the ultimate comforting experience!
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FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions about making this easy tomato soup, along with some helpful answers to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time:
Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe?
Yes! If fresh tomatoes aren’t in season, canned whole tomatoes or crushed tomatoes work great. Be sure to choose high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor. Just blend them up once they’re cooked with the onions and garlic for a smooth base.
How can I make my tomato soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, there are a couple of ways to achieve that. You can reduce the soup over low heat to concentrate the flavors and thicken it up. Alternatively, add a small amount of cornstarch or potato flakes and stir until the soup reaches your desired consistency.
Can I make this tomato soup spicier?
Yes! If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños during the cooking process. For an extra kick, top the soup with some crushed red pepper flakes just before serving.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
To elevate the flavor of your tomato soup, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a hint of sweetness and tang. Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme also pair beautifully with tomato soup, giving it a fresh, aromatic taste.
tomato soup easy
Ingredients
- 4 large fresh tomatoes about 2 pounds
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup heavy cream optional
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish optional
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Dice the tomatoes into chunks so they cook evenly and break down easily.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant.
Cook the Tomatoes:
- Add the diced tomatoes to the pot, stirring to combine them with the onion and garlic. Let them cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.
Add the Broth and Seasonings:
- Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the tomatoes are fully softened and the flavors have melded together.
Blend the Soup:
- Once the soup has simmered, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth. For a chunkier texture, you can blend it for a shorter amount of time.
Add Cream (Optional):
- If you’re using heavy cream, add it now and stir well to combine. This will give your soup a rich, velvety texture. If you prefer a dairy-free version, skip this step or substitute with coconut milk for a creamy finish.
Taste and Adjust:
- Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add a pinch more salt or pepper, depending on your preference.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve with a side of crispy bread or grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort meal.