Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup. Perfect for chilly days and cozy nights, this soup is a classic favorite.
This Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup is a delightful way to enjoy the comforting flavors of ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a touch of cream. Whether served as a starter or a main dish with a crusty bread, it’s sure to satisfy your taste buds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, velvety texture that warms your soul
- Bursting with fresh tomato flavor and herbs
- Quick and easy to make for any occasion
The Comforting Classic
Tomato soup has been a beloved staple in kitchens around the world for generations. Its warm, inviting flavors evoke feelings of nostalgia, often reminding us of cozy family dinners and chilly afternoons. This Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup takes a classic recipe and elevates it with a velvety texture and rich taste, making it a perfect dish for any season. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Made with fresh ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a comforting bowl of soup that feels gourmet. The addition of heavy cream transforms the soup into a luxurious experience, making it feel indulgent without being overly complicated. It's a dish that brings both comfort and joy, ideal for sharing with loved ones.
Perfect Pairings
Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a classic combination, serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich, allowing the gooey cheese to complement the tangy tomato flavors. Alternatively, a fresh garden salad adds a refreshing contrast, making your meal well-rounded and satisfying.
For those looking to elevate their dining experience, consider pairing the soup with a glass of red wine. A light Merlot or Chianti can enhance the flavors of the tomatoes and herbs, creating a delightful balance. Enjoying this pairing during a cozy dinner will surely impress your guests and create lasting memories.
Storing and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers, this soup stores beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickens in the fridge, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Reheating this soup also allows the flavors to meld even further, often making it taste even better the next day. It's a great option for meal prep, ensuring you have a delicious, homemade meal ready to go whenever you need it. Just remember to garnish with fresh basil before serving for that extra touch of flavor.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Gather all ingredients before starting for best results!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Broth
Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, and dried oregano to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches, and blend until creamy.
Add Cream and Serve
Stir in the heavy cream and heat through. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Enjoy your homemade creamy tomato soup with a side of crusty bread!
Tips for Success
To achieve the best flavor, choose high-quality canned tomatoes, preferably San Marzano. These tomatoes have a natural sweetness and rich flavor that elevates your soup. If you have fresh tomatoes available, feel free to substitute them; just be sure to peel and seed them for a smoother consistency.
Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Taste your soup as it cooks, and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Fresh herbs can also be added at the end of cooking for an extra burst of flavor. Experiment with ingredients like a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.
Nutritional Benefits
Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is known for its heart-health benefits. This homemade soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a healthy boost to your diet. The addition of olive oil adds heart-healthy fats, making this dish both nourishing and delicious.
Heavy cream, while indulgent, can be balanced with low-fat alternatives if you're looking for a lighter version. Coconut milk or cashew cream can provide a creamy texture without the extra calories, making this soup accessible for various dietary preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes. Blanch, peel, and chop them before adding.
→ Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a nut-based cream alternative.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
→ Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Yes, feel free to add carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup. Perfect for chilly days and cozy nights, this soup is a classic favorite.
Created by: Jocelyn Parker
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, and dried oregano to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches, and blend until creamy.
Stir in the heavy cream and heat through. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 5g