Tomato soup is the kind of warm hug in a bowl that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Imagine velvety tomatoes mingling with herbs, creating a symphony of flavors that waft through your kitchen, enticing everyone nearby. The aroma alone can transport you to sun-kissed Italian gardens, where fresh basil and ripe tomatoes reign supreme.
You might find yourself reminiscing about rainy afternoons spent curled up on the couch, spooning up this luscious goodness while binge-watching your favorite series. Whether you’ve just come in from a chilly day or are hosting an impromptu dinner party, tomato soup is always a welcome guest at the table. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This tomato soup recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavors combine beautifully for a comforting bowl of deliciousness
- Its vibrant red color adds visual appeal and warmth to any meal
- Plus, you can customize it with toppings like croutons or fresh herbs for added flair
Sharing a bowl of this tomato soup with friends led to laughter and the discovery that one of them put hot sauce on everything—yes, even this!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Tomatoes: Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor; heirloom varieties add sweetness and depth.
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Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; yellow onions work well but feel free to experiment.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the flavor; don’t skimp—more garlic equals more yum!
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Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping it flavorful.
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Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances richness; drizzle some in before serving for extra flavor.
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Basil Leaves: Fresh basil brings brightness and herbaceous notes that balance the dish beautifully.
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Sugar: Just a pinch helps cut acidity; use brown sugar for added depth if you like.
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Salt and Pepper: Season to taste—trust your instincts here for the perfect balance!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by washing and chopping your fresh tomatoes into quarters. Dice your onion and mince the garlic cloves finely, so they release their flavor quickly during cooking.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot until shimmering. Add diced onions, cooking until they turn translucent and smell sweet—about 5 minutes. Next, toss in minced garlic until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour those chopped tomatoes into the pot along with vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients while letting their flavors meld together beautifully as they simmer.
Season It Right!: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and sugar while adjusting according to taste preferences. Let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes; this allows the tomatoes to break down completely into a lovely sauce-like consistency.
Blend Until Smooth: Once cooked down, remove from heat and carefully blend using an immersion blender until smooth—this will result in that velvety texture we all crave! If using a traditional blender, let it cool slightly before transferring.
Add Fresh Basil and Serve!: Stir in shredded fresh basil leaves right before serving for an aromatic finish. Ladle into bowls and garnish with optional toppings like croutons or drizzles of olive oil—it’s time to dig in!
With these steps completed, you’ve got yourself a hearty bowl of homemade tomato soup that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
You Must Know
- Tomato soup is not just a childhood favorite; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl
- The rich aroma fills your kitchen, making it feel like home
- Enjoy it with grilled cheese for a classic combo that never disappoints
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add tomatoes and broth. Simmer for at least 20 minutes to let flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap canned tomatoes for fresh ones, or add basil for an herby twist. You can even sprinkle some cheese on top for extra creaminess.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover tomato soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor; they really elevate your soup experience
- Blend thoroughly for a creamy texture, ensuring every spoonful is smooth
- Don’t forget to season after blending; it makes a world of difference!
I once made tomato soup for friends, and they couldn’t believe how easy and delicious it was. Their smiles were worth every chopped onion!
FAQ
What is the best type of tomato for tomato soup?
Using ripe Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes brings out the best flavor in your soup.
Can I freeze tomato soup?
Yes, you can freeze tomato soup in airtight containers for up to three months.
How do I make my tomato soup creamier?
Add heavy cream or blend in some cooked potatoes for extra creaminess without dairy.

Tomato Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Tomato soup is a comforting dish that warms the soul. This easy, homemade tomato soup combines ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and spices for a velvety texture and rich flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a bowl of deliciousness that’s perfect for chilly days or cozy gatherings. Top it with croutons or fresh basil for an extra touch of flair!
Ingredients
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, shredded
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until translucent (about 5 minutes), then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes and vegetable broth. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes.
- Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or traditional blender (let cool slightly first).
- Stir in shredded basil leaves just before serving. Garnish with optional toppings like croutons.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg