Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the rich, comforting taste of homemade tomato soup that’s perfect for chilly days or a quick weeknight dinner. This easy-to-follow recipe combines fresh tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and a touch of cream to create a velvety texture and delightful flavor. Serve it with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic meal that warms the heart.
This homemade tomato soup is not just food; it's a hug in a bowl. Made with love and fresh ingredients, it's a comforting dish that can easily become a family favorite!
An Iconic Comfort Food
Tomato soup is a classic comfort food that evokes feelings of nostalgia and warmth. Perfect for chilly evenings or rainy days, this homemade version elevates the traditional recipe with fresh ingredients. The natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes combined with savory garlic and onions creates a balanced, rich flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, it holds a special place in the hearts of many.
Rich in vitamins and nutrients, tomato soup offers numerous health benefits. Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to many health benefits, including heart health and cancer prevention. Incorporating this soup into your diet could help boost your immunity during cold and flu season, making it not only delicious but beneficial for your well-being. Enjoying this dish can contribute to a balanced diet while satisfying your comfort food cravings.
Versatile Serving Suggestions
One of the great things about tomato soup is its versatility when it comes to serving options. Whether you prefer to dip crusty bread or pair it with a classic grilled cheese sandwich, the combinations are endless. You can even sprinkle some fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top for an extra burst of flavor and color, enhancing both the presentation and taste.
For a gourmet twist, consider adding toppings such as croutons, shredded cheese, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. These additions can elevate the dish beyond its comforting roots, making it suitable for entertaining guests or celebrating special occasions. This flexibility makes homemade tomato soup a timeless recipe that adapts well to personal tastes and dietary preferences.
Storing and Reheating Your Soup
Ingredients
For the Tomato Soup
- 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh ingredients make all the difference!
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Cook the Tomatoes
Add the chopped tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir in the dried basil, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly. Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a blender in batches.
Finish with Cream
Return the soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Heat through and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Enjoy your homemade tomato soup!
Nutritional Information
This homemade tomato soup is not only comforting but also healthy! A single serving is rich in vitamins A and C, and can be part of a nutrient-dense diet. By using fresh tomatoes and other wholesome ingredients, you ensure that each bowl is packed with essential nutrients. The inclusion of vegetable broth keeps it low in calories while still providing the rich taste of a hearty meal.
By using heavy cream in moderation, you can create a creamy texture without overwhelming the dish with fat. For those looking to make a healthier version, alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk can be used in place of cream, offering a dairy-free option. This flexibility means you can customize your soup to fit various dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
Recipe Variations
For those who like to experiment in the kitchen, there are countless variations of this tomato soup recipe that can add new life to a classic dish. Consider incorporating roasted vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, for added depth and flavor. Roasting the tomatoes beforehand can also intensify their sweetness and create a unique twist on the original recipe.
If you enjoy a bit of spice, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat. Alternatively, you can blend in some fresh basil or pesto either during cooking or as a garnish for a burst of freshness. These variations can easily transform a simple tomato soup into a signature dish that reflects your personal tastes.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes can be used, but fresh tomatoes provide a much brighter flavor.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
Simply omit the heavy cream and use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute.
Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe
Savor the rich, comforting taste of homemade tomato soup that’s perfect for chilly days or a quick weeknight dinner. This easy-to-follow recipe combines fresh tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and a touch of cream to create a velvety texture and delightful flavor. Serve it with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic meal that warms the heart.
Created by: Ethan
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Tomato Soup
- 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the chopped tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir in the dried basil, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly. Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a blender in batches.
Return the soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Heat through and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g