Creamy Tomato Soup is a warm, comforting dish made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, onion, and a smooth creamy finish. It’s easy to prepare and makes a delicious lunch or light dinner, especially when served with crusty bread.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
2. Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Add the dried basil and oregano, then season with salt and black pepper.
Stir everything together.
3. Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. Cover partially and simmer for about 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Blend Until Smooth
Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, work in small batches and carefully follow the blender manufacturer’s safety instructions.
5. Add the Cream
Return the blended soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Warm gently for 2–3 minutes without bringing it to a strong boil.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil. Serve warm with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Tips for the Best Tomato Soup
- Use good-quality canned tomatoes if fresh tomatoes aren’t in season.
- Sauté the onion until soft to build more flavor.
- Blend the soup thoroughly for a smoother texture.
- Add the cream over low heat to help maintain a smooth consistency.
- Adjust the seasoning after adding the cream.
Optional Additions
You can customize your tomato soup with:
- Parmesan cheese
- Croutons
- Fresh basil
- A drizzle of olive oil
- Red pepper flakes
- Roasted garlic
- Grilled cheese on the side
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make tomato soup without cream?
Yes. You can simply leave out the cream for a lighter tomato soup.
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes. Fresh ripe tomatoes can be used, although cooking time may need to be adjusted depending on their water content.
How should I store leftovers?
Allow the soup to cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently until thoroughly warmed.
Conclusion
Creamy Tomato Soup is a simple and comforting recipe that combines tomatoes, aromatic herbs, garlic, and cream into a smooth and flavorful dish. Serve it with warm bread for an easy homemade meal.