Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy a warm bowl of this comforting Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup, perfect for chilly days or as a delightful starter.
This Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup is a delightful blend of fresh tomatoes, cream, and herbs, creating a rich and velvety texture. It's the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold day!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, velvety texture that comforts the soul
- Bursting with fresh tomato flavor and herbs
- Easy to make and perfect for any occasion
The Benefits of Homemade Soup
Making your own tomato soup allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a fresh and wholesome dish. Unlike store-bought varieties, which often contain preservatives and artificial flavors, homemade soup is crafted from ripe, juicy tomatoes and aromatic herbs. This means you can enjoy a rich, authentic flavor without any guilt.
Moreover, creating your own soup is an excellent way to utilize seasonal produce. Fresh tomatoes, especially when they are at their peak, can elevate the taste of your soup to new heights. By incorporating seasonal vegetables and herbs, you not only enhance the flavor but also add nutritional value to your meal.
Perfect Pairings
This creamy tomato soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. A classic grilled cheese sandwich is a favorite choice, adding a satisfying crunch and melty goodness that complements the smooth soup. Alternatively, consider serving it with a slice of rustic bread for dipping, allowing you to soak up every last drop of that velvety goodness.
For a more sophisticated touch, try topping your soup with a sprinkle of crumbled feta or a dollop of pesto. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color, making your bowl of soup visually appealing.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This creamy tomato soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Simply transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container to keep it fresh. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy a comforting bowl, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned. Homemade soup is truly a meal you can savor any time!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious soup:
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Make sure to prepare everything before starting the cooking process for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup:
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings
Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches and blend until smooth.
Finish with Cream
Return the soup to the pot, and stir in the heavy cream. Heat through for another 5 minutes, then adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve warm with crusty bread.
Enjoy your homemade soup with a side of crusty bread for the perfect meal!
Health Benefits of Tomatoes
Tomatoes are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. They are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which are vital for maintaining a healthy immune system and skin. Additionally, tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain types of cancer.
Incorporating tomatoes into your diet can also support heart health. The potassium found in tomatoes helps regulate blood pressure, while the fiber aids in cholesterol management. When you enjoy a comforting bowl of tomato soup, you’re doing your body a favor while indulging in a delightful flavor experience.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best things about homemade creamy tomato soup is its versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe according to your taste preferences. You can add a kick of heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes or mix in sautéed vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.
For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a blend of cashews soaked in water. This not only makes the soup vegan-friendly but also adds a unique flavor profile. Experimenting with spices such as smoked paprika or a dash of balsamic vinegar can also elevate your soup to new heights.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You'll need about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped.
→ How can I store leftover soup?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat before serving.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave out the cream until you reheat it.
→ What can I serve with tomato soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, croutons, or a fresh salad.
Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Enjoy a warm bowl of this comforting Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup, perfect for chilly days or as a delightful starter.
Created by: Callista Green
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 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 translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches and blend until smooth.
Return the soup to the pot, and stir in the heavy cream. Heat through for another 5 minutes, then adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve warm with crusty bread.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g