There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of homemade tomato soup made with fresh, ripe tomatoes, garlic, and a blend of aromatic herbs. The natural sweetness of the tomatoes is balanced with a touch of salt, and a silky-smooth texture is achieved by blending everything together. The result? A heartwarming, vibrant soup that is rich in flavor and packed with nutrients. This classic tomato soup pairs beautifully with crispy grilled cheese, warm crusty bread, or even a fresh green salad. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy weeknight meal or serve it as a starter for a dinner party, this dish is sure to be a favorite. Plus, it’s simple to customize add a splash of cream for extra richness, some red pepper flakes for spice, or fresh basil for a fragrant twist.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons oil or butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (or einkorn flour for easier digestion)
- 10 medium tomatoes (about 2 pounds), chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped fresh basil, crumbled bacon, croutons, or a drizzle of heavy cream
Directions:
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add oil or butter and diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for another minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring continuously for another 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a low simmer. Let cook for about 15 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, ladle it into a regular blender and blend in batches. Be sure to release the steam to prevent splattering.
- Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings such as fresh basil, crispy bacon, or homemade croutons.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 68 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Why You Should Make Tomato Soup from Scratch
1. It’s Healthier and More Nutritious
When you make tomato soup at home, you control exactly what goes into it. Store-bought tomato soup, especially the canned varieties, often contain high amounts of sodium, unhealthy additives, and artificial preservatives. By using fresh, whole ingredients, you get the full nutritional benefits of tomatoes, which are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene.
Lycopene, found abundantly in tomatoes, has been linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Cooking tomatoes actually increases the availability of lycopene, making homemade tomato soup a delicious and healthy choice.
2. It’s Easy to Make
Many people assume that making tomato soup from scratch is time-consuming, but in reality, it’s a quick and simple process. With just a few fresh ingredients and about 30 minutes, you can have a creamy, flavorful soup ready to serve. All it takes is sautéing some onions and garlic, adding fresh tomatoes and broth, and blending everything together into a smooth consistency.
3. Customization Options
One of the best things about homemade tomato soup is its versatility. You can tweak the recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs:
- For a creamy texture, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.
- For a smoky flavor, mix in roasted tomatoes or smoked paprika.
- For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- For extra protein, serve it with grilled chicken or shredded cheese.
- For a vegan option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and substitute cream with plant-based alternatives.
The Secret to a Rich and Flavorful Tomato Soup
1. Choosing the Right Tomatoes
The type of tomatoes you use can make a significant difference in flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are a popular choice for their sweet and less acidic taste. However, Roma, vine-ripened, or heirloom tomatoes can also work well. If fresh tomatoes aren’t in season, high-quality canned tomatoes are a great alternative.
2. Enhancing Flavor with Aromatics
Garlic and onions play a crucial role in building the base flavor of the soup. Sautéing them before adding the tomatoes releases their natural sweetness and enhances the overall depth of the dish.
3. The Perfect Seasoning Blend
A combination of Italian seasoning, fresh basil, salt, and black pepper brings out the natural flavors of the tomatoes. If you prefer a more robust taste, you can add oregano, thyme, or a touch of balsamic vinegar for extra richness.
4. Achieving the Right Texture
For a smooth and creamy soup, blending is key. An immersion blender makes the process easy and mess-free. If you don’t have one, you can use a regular blender just be sure to blend in batches and allow steam to escape to avoid splattering.
Serving Suggestions: What Pairs Well with Tomato Soup?
1. Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Nothing complements tomato soup better than a crispy, gooey grilled cheese sandwich. The combination of buttery toasted bread and melted cheese dipped into the rich tomato soup creates a comforting and satisfying meal. Try using sourdough bread for an extra crunchy texture.
2. Freshly Baked Bread or Croutons
Warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. You can also top your soup with homemade croutons for added crunch and texture.
3. Roasted Vegetables or Salad
For a balanced meal, pair tomato soup with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts. A fresh green salad with homemade dressing also makes a great side dish.
4. Protein Additions
If you want to turn this soup into a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon on top. A sprinkle of shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese can also elevate the flavor.
How to Store and Reheat Tomato Soup
One of the best things about homemade tomato soup is that it stores well, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Refrigeration
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Freezing
Tomato soup is freezer-friendly and can be stored for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool, then pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up on the stove. If the texture changes slightly after freezing, blend it again for a smoother consistency.
Common Questions About Homemade Tomato Soup
1. Do I Need to Peel the Tomatoes?
No, peeling the tomatoes is optional. The skins blend into the soup and add extra nutrients. However, if you prefer a completely smooth soup, you can blanch and peel the tomatoes before cooking.
2. Can I Make This Soup Without a Blender?
Yes! If you prefer a chunkier soup, simply mash the tomatoes with a potato masher instead of blending.
3. How Can I Make It Creamier?
For a creamier texture, stir in heavy cream, coconut milk, or even cashew cream at the end of cooking.
4. What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
A splash of balsamic vinegar, red wine, or Worcestershire sauce can enhance the richness of the soup. Fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or bay leaves also add depth.
Conclusion:
Homemade tomato soup is a nutritious, comforting, and easy-to-make dish that belongs in every home cook’s repertoire. With simple ingredients and a few key techniques, you can create a rich, flavorful soup that beats any store-bought version. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch, a cozy dinner, or a meal prep option, this classic tomato soup recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again.
Pair it with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich, fresh bread, or a hearty salad, and you have a delicious, well-balanced meal. Try this recipe today, and experience the warmth and satisfaction of a bowl of homemade tomato soup made from scratch!