This warm and cozy tomato soup is a classic favorite! Made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, it has a deliciously smooth texture that makes it comfort in a bowl.
Honestly, I could sip on this soup every day! I love pairing it with a grilled cheese sandwich for a tasty lunch or dinner combo—so perfect on chilly days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a base flavor to your soup. If you’re out, feel free to use canola or avocado oil, which also work well without changing the taste too much.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re sensitive to onions, shallots or green onions can be good substitutes.
Fresh Tomatoes: Fresh ripe tomatoes give the best flavor. Canned tomatoes are a great alternative, especially when fresh ones aren’t in season. Use whole peeled tomatoes for a similar taste.
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup rich and creamy. If you want it dairy-free, coconut cream or cashew cream are excellent options!
Croutons: These add a nice crunch. You can use store-bought or make your own by toasting bread cubes with a bit of olive oil and seasoning.
How Do You Get a Smooth Texture for Your Tomato Soup?
Getting a smooth texture is key for a creamy tomato soup. Here’s how to achieve that perfect blend:
- After simmering, let the soup cool slightly before blending.
- Use an immersion blender directly in the pot for convenience, or transfer to a blender in batches. Be cautious with hot liquids!
- Blend until it’s silky smooth. If you prefer some texture, you can blend only part of the soup and mix it back in.
Remember, blending is your friend here! Smooth soup makes for a lovely presentation and mouthfeel.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Soup with Herb Garnish and Croutons
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds fresh ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped (or use canned whole peeled tomatoes)
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Cherry tomatoes
- Croutons (about 1 cup)
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful tomato soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of cooking and blending, making a total of about 50 minutes from start to finish. It’s a wonderful dish to prepare on a cozy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the finely chopped onion and sauté it until it’s soft and translucent—this should take about 5 minutes. It will smell wonderful!
2. Add Garlic & Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute. You want to smell that garlic but not burn it! Stir in the tomato paste, then add your fresh chopped tomatoes (or canned if you’re using those). Cook everything together for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes soften up.
3. Create the Soup Base:
Now, pour in the broth (vegetable or chicken) and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This will allow all those delicious flavors to blend!
4. Blend It Smooth:
After 20 minutes, carefully blend the soup until it’s nice and smooth. If you’re using an immersion blender, just blend it right in the pot. If using a regular blender, let it cool slightly first and blend it in batches for safety!
5. Final Touches:
Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the sugar (if desired), along with salt and pepper to taste. Now, add in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and warm it through. Please remember not to boil it again!
6. Serve It Up:
Time to eat! Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish each bowl with roasted or fresh cherry tomatoes, a scattering of croutons, and some fresh basil and rosemary. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top and give it a sprinkle of black pepper for that finishing touch.
7. Enjoy:
Serve your creamy tomato soup hot, paired with crusty bread or any side of your choice. It’s delicious, heartwarming, and perfect for sharing!
Enjoy this classic creamy tomato soup that looks as inviting as it tastes!
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Canned tomatoes are a great substitute and can even enhance the flavor. Use whole peeled canned tomatoes along with their juices for the best results.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
To make the soup vegan, simply swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Also, ensure that your broth is vegetable-based.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tomato Soup?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Can I Freeze Tomato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.