This Cherry Tomato Soup recipe is like a shot of sunshine! It’s a bright, tangy, and slightly sweet vegan soup, perfect when you are up to your elbows in fresh summertime tomatoes. Best of all, it’s incredibly simple and versatile.This Cherry Tomato Soup is a vibrant, refreshing twist on the classic tomato soup, using sweet cherry tomatoes to bring a bright, naturally sweet flavor. Perfect as a cozy starter or a light main dish, this soup is easy to make and captures the essence of fresh tomatoes. It’s especially enjoyable in late summer when cherry tomatoes are at their peak ripeness, but it can be made year-round with ease.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
- 6 cups cherry tomatoes (about 1 ¾ lbs)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 6 whole garlic cloves, peeled
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp table salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- ¼ cup torn basil leaves, plus more for serving
Directions:
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F and place a rack in the middle position of the oven.
Prepare Vegetables:
- Prepare Vegetables: Place tomatoes, onion, garlic, thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a Dutch oven, oven-safe large skillet, or braiser pan. Toss to combine.
Roast Vegetables:
- Roast Vegetables: Drizzle in the olive oil and gently toss again. Roast in the oven until the tomatoes are golden brown and have released much of their juices, and the garlic is very soft, about 45 minutes.
Blend Soup:
- Blend Soup: Cool slightly, then add broth and basil. Blend with an immersion blender or carefully transfer to a blender and puree until smooth (be cautious when blending hot ingredients). Strain the soup if you prefer a smoother consistency.
Heat and Serve:
- Heat and Serve: Transfer the mixture back to the pan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Serve immediately with more fresh torn basil leaves.
Serving Suggestions:
- Add a splash of heavy cream (or vegan alternative).
- Top with fresh grated Parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil.
- Serve with a side of our Homemade Basil Pesto.
- Pair with our Air Fryer Steak Fries.
Cooking Tips:
- Adjust the seasoning to taste by adding more salt, pepper, or your favorite spices.
- For an extra creamy texture, stir in a bit of coconut milk or cashew cream.
Origins and Popularity
Tomato soup is a comforting staple in many cuisines, especially in Europe and North America, where it’s often paired with a grilled cheese sandwich or a crusty loaf of bread. This version, featuring cherry tomatoes, has gained popularity as these tomatoes add a rich sweetness and require less cooking time due to their smaller size and higher natural sugar content.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cherry Tomatoes: Packed with antioxidants like lycopene, vitamins C and K, and fiber, cherry tomatoes add both flavor and nutrients.
- Olive Oil: Used as a base for roasting, olive oil is rich in healthy fats and adds a subtle richness to the soup.
- Herbs and Spices: Basil, thyme, or rosemary not only add flavor but also contain antioxidants and other beneficial compounds.
Ingredients Overview
- Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are ideal for their sweet flavor and juicy texture. You can use a mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes for extra color.
- Garlic and Onion: These add a savory depth to the soup, balancing out the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Broth: Vegetable or chicken broth enhances the flavors without overpowering the freshness of the tomatoes.
- Herbs: Fresh basil, thyme, or oregano add a classic herbal note; a touch of chili flakes can give it a bit of heat if desired.
Cooking Tips
- Roast the Tomatoes: Roasting the cherry tomatoes with garlic and onion intensifies their flavor, adding a rich, caramelized taste to the soup.
- Blending: Blend the soup until smooth for a velvety texture, or leave it slightly chunky if you prefer a rustic feel.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stirring in fresh basil or thyme at the end preserves their aroma and adds a lovely pop of color and flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Creamy Version: Add a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate roasted bell peppers or carrots for added flavor and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cherry tomato soup with a drizzle of olive oil, a dollop of sour cream, or freshly grated Parmesan on top. Pair it with crusty bread, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a light green salad to make it a complete meal.
Ideal for Leftovers
Cherry tomato soup can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Reheat on the stove, and add a bit of water or broth to adjust the consistency if needed.
Light, Flavorful, and Easy
With its fresh, sweet flavor and vibrant color, this Cherry Tomato Soup is a fantastic way to enjoy the natural goodness of tomatoes. It’s an ideal choice for a quick, nourishing meal that tastes as good as it looks.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in Vitamins: Cherry tomatoes are packed with vitamins A and C.
- Antioxidants: Basil and tomatoes contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation.
- Low in Calories: This soup is a light, healthy option for any meal.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan: This soup is completely plant-based.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Dairy-Free: Perfect for those avoiding dairy products.
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: Cool the soup to room temperature, then transfer to a freezer-safe zip-top bag. Label and lay flat in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Healthy: Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Versatile: Can be adjusted to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Conclusion:
This Cherry Tomato Soup is a delightful way to enjoy the bounty of summertime tomatoes. Its bright flavors and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Serve it warm with fresh basil and your favorite accompaniments for a satisfying meal. Enjoy!
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Cherry Tomato Soup
- Total Time: 50mins
Description
This Cherry Tomato Soup recipe is like a shot of sunshine! It’s a bright, tangy, and slightly sweet vegan soup, perfect when you are up to your elbows in fresh summertime tomatoes. Best of all, it’s incredibly simple and versatile.
Ingredients
- 6 cups cherry tomatoes (about 1 3/4 lbs)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 6 whole garlic cloves, peeled
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp table salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup torn basil leaves, plus more for serving
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F and place a rack in the middle position of the oven.
Prepare Vegetables:
- Prepare Vegetables: Place tomatoes, onion, garlic, thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a Dutch oven, oven-safe large skillet, or braiser pan. Toss to combine.
Roast Vegetables:
- Roast Vegetables: Drizzle in the olive oil and gently toss again. Roast in the oven until the tomatoes are golden brown and have released much of their juices, and the garlic is very soft, about 45 minutes.
Blend Soup:
- Blend Soup: Cool slightly, then add broth and basil. Blend with an immersion blender or carefully transfer to a blender and puree until smooth (be cautious when blending hot ingredients). Strain the soup if you prefer a smoother consistency.
Heat and Serve:
- Heat and Serve: Transfer the mixture back to the pan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Serve immediately with more fresh torn basil leaves.
- Prep Time: 5mins
- Cook Time: 45mins