Imagine a bowl of creamy tomato soup that wraps around you like a warm hug on a chilly evening. With its rich, velvety texture and vibrant red hue, this delightful dish promises to ignite your taste buds and bring comfort to your soul. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make you feel like a gourmet chef, even if you’re just trying to avoid cooking an elaborate dinner.
This recipe for creamy tomato soup is not just about flavor; it’s about memories. Picture cozy nights spent curled up on the couch with a steaming bowl of this delicious goodness while binge-watching your favorite show. There’s something magical about dipping a crunchy grilled cheese sandwich into it that makes everything feel right in the world.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy tomato soup is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
- The flavor is rich and satisfying without being overwhelming
- Its stunning color makes it an attractive addition to any meal
- Perfect for lunch or dinner, you can enjoy it alone or paired with your favorite sandwich
One time, I made this creamy masterpiece for a dinner party, and my friends practically licked their bowls clean—no kidding! They were so impressed they begged me for the recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ripe Tomatoes: Choose firm tomatoes for maximum flavor; vine-ripened are always best.
- Onion: A sweet onion works wonders in enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must; its robust aroma fills the kitchen with warmth.
- Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while still retaining flavor.
- Cream or Coconut Milk: For that luscious creaminess; coconut milk adds a unique twist.
- Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil adds richness; use extra virgin for a better taste.
- Fresh Basil: Nothing beats the fresh aroma of basil to elevate your tomato soup!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your tomatoes, onion, and garlic into bite-sized pieces. This prepares everything nicely for cooking while filling your kitchen with fresh aromas.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add onions first and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant, followed by garlic until golden brown.
Add Tomatoes & Broth: Toss in the chopped tomatoes and pour in vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally—this step helps meld all those glorious flavors together.
Blend Until Smooth: Once the tomatoes soften (about 10-15 minutes), use an immersion blender right in the pot until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer it to a blender in batches.
Stir in Cream & Seasonings: Return the blended soup to low heat and stir in cream or coconut milk for that dreamy texture. Season with salt and pepper; don’t be shy—taste as you go!
Add Fresh Basil & Serve!: Finally, stir in freshly chopped basil just before serving; its aromatic touch brings everything together beautifully. Ladle into bowls and enjoy!
This creamy tomato soup is both comforting and inviting—a perfect companion on any day of the week!
You Must Know
- Creamy tomato soup is more than a comforting bowl; it can be a delightful dinner party hit
- Its rich aroma fills the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere
- Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a grilled cheese sandwich, making for an unbeatable duo
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add tomatoes and broth for depth. Blend until smooth before adding cream for that velvety finish.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping heavy cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Add fresh basil or a dash of chili flakes for extra flavor excitement.
Storing & Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on low heat to preserve creaminess without curdling.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, use fresh tomatoes when in season
- Always taste as you go; adjust seasoning to suit your palate
- Consider blending with herbs like thyme or oregano for added depth
Cooking this creamy tomato soup reminds me of cozy evenings with family and friends gathered around the table, sharing laughter and stories over warm bowls of comfort.
FAQ
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes are great and save time while still providing delicious flavor.
How do I thicken my creamy tomato soup?
To thicken, blend in some cooked potatoes or use less broth during cooking.
What can I serve with creamy tomato soup?
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic pairing that complements the soup’s richness perfectly.
Creamy Tomato Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in this rich, velvety soup that’s perfect for cozy nights in. Quick to prepare, it pairs wonderfully with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes
- 1 sweet onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cream or coconut milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Chop the tomatoes, onion, and garlic into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent, then add garlic and cook until golden.
- Add chopped tomatoes and vegetable broth; simmer for 10-15 minutes until tomatoes soften.
- Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or standard blender.
- Return the soup to low heat and stir in cream or coconut milk; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in fresh basil just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
