The aroma of tomato soup wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Imagine a velvety bowl of rich, tangy goodness, warmed to perfection and ready to cozy up with a grilled cheese sandwich. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in nostalgia and comfort, reminding you of rainy days and childhood afternoons spent dipping bread into a bright red pool of deliciousness.
As I ladle this vibrant soup into bowls, I can’t help but chuckle at my family’s antics over the years. My kids once staged an epic “who can eat their soup the fastest” contest. Spoiler alert: no one won; they were just too busy slurping! Whether it’s a chilly evening or a spontaneous lunch gathering, this delightful tomato soup is always a crowd-pleaser that promises warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy tomato soup recipe combines simplicity with incredible flavor, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner
- You can customize it with herbs or spices based on your preference
- The bright red color makes it visually appealing, ensuring an Instagram-worthy meal
- Enjoy it as a comforting bowl solo or pair it with your favorite sandwich for an unbeatable duo
I still remember the first time I made tomato soup from scratch; my family was blown away by how fresh and flavorful it tasted compared to store-bought options.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ripe Tomatoes: Choose juicy and fragrant tomatoes for the best flavor; vine-ripened are my go-to.
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Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; chop finely for even cooking.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic lends an aromatic kick; use 2-3 cloves based on preference.
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Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing the soup’s flavor.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds richness without overpowering other flavors.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; adjust according to taste.
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Basil (Fresh or Dried): Fresh basil gives a lovely aroma; if using dried, add less as it’s more concentrated.
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Sugar: Just a pinch balances acidity from the tomatoes; trust me, it works wonders.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil until shimmering. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring until they become translucent and fragrant.
Add the Tomatoes**: Toss in roughly chopped ripe tomatoes along with their juices. Cook them down for about 10-15 minutes until they soften and break apart beautifully.
Pour in the Broth**: Next, add 4 cups of vegetable broth into the mix. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, allowing flavors to meld together for about 20 minutes.
Season It Right**: Stir in salt, pepper, sugar, and basil during the last few minutes of cooking. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to achieve that perfect balance of flavors.
Blend Until Smooth**: Using an immersion blender (or transferring batches to a regular blender), blend until silky smooth. Be careful not to splash hot soup everywhere unless you enjoy cleaning!
Serve & Enjoy**: Ladle your warm tomato soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra touch before serving with crusty bread or grilled cheese on the side.
Now you’re all set! Enjoy your homemade bowl of comfort that’s guaranteed to create happy memories around your table.
You Must Know
- A delightful tomato soup recipe is a warm hug in a bowl
- Its vibrant color and rich aroma will transport you to comfort town
- Remember, fresh tomatoes often shine brighter than canned ones, but both can create magic!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add your tomatoes for maximum flavor. Let everything simmer while you prepare any sides for an efficient cooking experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in herbs like basil or oregano, or even toss in some roasted red peppers for an exciting twist. Experiment with spices to find your perfect blend.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best tomato soup, use ripe tomatoes for sweetness and depth of flavor
- Don’t ignore seasoning; it elevates the taste significantly
- Always blend hot soup carefully to avoid splattering everywhere!
Sometimes I make this soup on rainy days; it never fails to bring smiles from family who enjoy its warmth and comfort.
FAQ
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh for tomato soup?
Absolutely! Canned tomatoes can be convenient and still yield delicious results.
What herbs pair well with tomato soup?
Basil, thyme, and oregano are fantastic choices that complement the flavors beautifully.
Is tomato soup gluten-free?
Yes, tomato soup is naturally gluten-free unless you add ingredients like pasta or bread.
Irresistible Homemade Tomato Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Warm up with a bowl of this comforting homemade tomato soup that captures the essence of nostalgic flavors in every spoonful. Made with fresh, ripe tomatoes and fragrant herbs, this velvety soup is perfect for chilly evenings or a quick lunch. Pair it with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich for an unbeatable duo that will delight your taste buds and warm your heart.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried basil)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 10-15 minutes until softened.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, sugar, and basil. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or by carefully transferring to a regular blender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil alongside your favorite bread or sandwich.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider incorporating roasted red peppers or spices like oregano. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days; reheat gently on the stove or microwave.