Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe because it’s like a warm, comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights in. Plus, the simplicity of fresh flavors, creamy textures, and a hint of spice makes each spoonful irresistibly delicious and Instagram-worthy!

What I adore about classic tomato soup is how it marries simplicity and comfort with richness and flavor. My easy version pairs two cans of whole peeled tomatoes from the San Marzano region (these are the best tomatoes for soup), a quart of low-sodium chicken broth, and an aromatic quartet of garlic, onion, olive oil, and fresh basil leaves.

Like the best kissing cousins of soup and sauce, this mixture melds together harmoniously in a blender: smooth enough to hint at what’s in store but with a texture that promises substance.

Ingredients

Olive Oil:
Ideal for doing the perfect sauté, they are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants.

Onion:
Imparts natural sweetness and depth; abundant in vitamins and fiber.

Garlic:
Delivers a strong, appetizing taste, accompanied by properties that counteract inflammation.

Whole Peeled Tomatoes:
Soup base; rich in vitamin C and lycopene.

Chicken Broth:
Delivers a rich concentration of nutrients and collagen, a deep savoriness.

Sugar:
Corrects the acidity of tomatoes and brings out their sweetness.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes:
Packs a spicy punch; revs up metabolism and taste.

Heavy Cream:
Provides a rich, creamy texture that isn’t necessary for a velvety, smooth result.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, over medium heat, warm the olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the onion that you have chopped and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the pot minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, frequently stirring until fragrant but not browned.

3. Add the entire can of whole peeled tomatoes, including their juices. With a spoon, break the tomatoes apart a little.

4. In the pot, combine the chicken or vegetable broth, sugar, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to mix all the components thoroughly.

5. Allow the combination to reach a simmer. Turn the heat down to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 to 25 minutes so that the flavors can meld.

6. Take the pot off the stove and allow the soup to cool a bit.

7. Using an immersion blender, carefully purée the soup in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, you can work in batches to purée the soup in a countertop blender.

8. Blending complete, pour the soup back into the pot (if using a countertop blender) and return it to the stovetop. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer over low heat.

9. Incorporate the heavy cream, if using, and season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust the seasoning as necessary.

10. Enjoy your easy tomato soup! Serve the soup hot, and garnish it with fresh basil leaves.

Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Wooden spoon or spatula
3. Chef’s knife
4. Cutting board
5. Can opener
6. Measuring spoons
7. Immersion blender or countertop blender
8. Ladle (for serving)

FAQ

• Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?Certainly, using fresh tomatoes is an option. You’ll need around 4 pounds of fresh, ripe tomatoes. It’s best to peel them before use, although that’s not strictly necessary. If you want to include fresh tomatoes in this sauce, add them after you’ve made the initial sauce and puréed it, then simmer the sauce with the tomatoes for a little longer so that everything blends nicely.
• Is there a vegan version of this soup?Of course! Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth, and leave out the heavy cream. You can also use a splash of coconut milk for a bit of creaminess.
• How can I make the soup creamier without cream?Thoroughly blend the soup or add a peeled, diced potato during cooking. This will give it an added creaminess when blended—that is, if you don’t already consider the soup to be creamy.
• Can I freeze this tomato soup?Certainly! Allow the soup to cool down all the way. Next, decant it into containers you can seal tightly or into freezer bags. Stow it in the freezer, where it will remain good for up to 3 months.
• What can I serve with this tomato soup?This soup is the perfect accompaniment to a grilled cheese sandwich, some crusty bread, or a fresh green salad.
• How do I adjust the spice level?To reduce the heat, leave out the crushed red pepper flakes. To increase the spice, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Can I add other herbs to this soup?Indeed, thyme and oregano enrich the flavors superbly. For optimal results, introduce them into the dish while the dish is in the cooking stage.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutes for olive oil that impart different flavors include butter and coconut oil.
Onion, medium: Substitute 2 to 3 shallots for a milder flavor, or use leeks for a subtle sweetness.
Cloves of garlic: If you do not have fresh garlic, you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
Use freshly crushed tomatoes for a slightly smoother texture, or use whole, fresh tomatoes if you’d prefer a fresher taste.
Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version, or omit it entirely for a lighter soup.

Pro Tips

1. Roast the Tomatoes For a deeper flavor, roast the canned tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the soup. Spread them on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little olive oil, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes.

2. Caramelize the Onions Take extra time to caramelize the onions slowly over low heat to enhance their sweetness and depth, which will add richness to the soup’s flavor.

3. Enhance with Herbs Add a bundle of fresh thyme or a sprig of rosemary to the soup as it simmers. Remove the herbs before blending for an earthy touch.

4. Use Quality Broth Use homemade or high-quality broth for a more robust flavor. You can also add a dash of white wine when adding the broth for an extra layer of complexity.

5. Finish with Butter Stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking (before serving) to enhance the creaminess and add a silky texture to the soup.