This cozy Tomato Soup (w/ Fresh Tomatoes!) recipe is like a warm hug on a chilly day. There’s something about the smell of fresh tomatoes mingling with herbs that instantly lifts your mood. Plus, making your own homemade tomato soup is super satisfying! Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and fun to make. One of the best parts? You get to use ripe, juicy tomatoes that are simply bursting with flavor.
So, gather your ingredients and let’s whip up this delicious soup together. You’ll be enjoying rich, savory goodness in no time. Whether you’re planning a lunch with friends or a cozy dinner for one, this Tomato Soup is the perfect companion. And remember, it’s not just about the soup; it’s the experience of cooking, sharing, and savoring every bite.
Why This Recipe Works
This tomato soup recipe highlights the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes, balanced with hearty vegetables that are roasted to perfection. Roasting the ingredients enhances their natural sweetness, ensuring a rich and flavorful base for your soup. By blending the roasted vegetables with vegetable broth, the result is a creamy and satisfying dish that’s both comforting and nutritious.
Why You’ll Love This Tomato Soup (w/ Fresh Tomatoes!)
This tomato soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly day. The combination of fresh tomatoes and herbs creates a comforting aroma, making it a perfect dish to share with family and friends. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—savor it on its own or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete culinary experience.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds ripe tomatoes (halved if small, quartered if large)
- 2 medium carrots (chopped)
- ½ medium onion (sliced)
- 4 cloves garlic (halved)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- ¼ cup fresh basil (plus more for serving)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup tomato paste (optional if your tomatoes are not very ripe)
Preparing the Perfect Tomato Soup
Preheat the Oven
Before getting started on your soup, preheat your oven to 450°F. The high temperature is crucial for roasting your vegetables to achieve that lovely char.
Roast the Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the halved tomatoes, chopped carrots, sliced onion, halved garlic cloves, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Toss the ingredients until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a large rimmed baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 40-45 minutes until the tomatoes and onions are beautifully charred. Keep an eye on the onions; if they start burning, remove them from the oven early.
Blend the Roasted Goodness
Once roasted, transfer the vegetable mixture to a large pot. Add the remaining fresh basil and blend using a traditional blender or an immersion blender until the soup is smooth and creamy. Be careful with the hot mixture!
Create the Creamy Base
Bring the blended soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional minute. Taste your soup; if the tomato flavor needs a boost, consider adding up to ¼ cup of tomato paste—perfect for enhancing the flavor during winter months when tomatoes might lack sweetness.
Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your delicious tomato soup into serving bowls and garnish with additional fresh basil. Enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of tomato goodness!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your tomato soup with classic grilled cheese sandwiches for a nostalgic meal.
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a light and wholesome lunch.
- Top with croutons or Parmesan cheese for added texture and flavor.
Tips for Success
- Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your personal taste; feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during roasting.
Variations
- For a spicy twist, add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
- Substitute with different herbs like cilantro or dill for unique flavor profiles.
- For a vegan version, replace heavy cream with coconut cream or omit it altogether.
Storage Tips
- Store leftover tomato soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- The soup can also be frozen for later use—just make sure to leave room in the container for expansion.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes can be used, but the flavor may differ slightly. Choose whole or crushed canned tomatoes for the best results.
2. How can I thicken my tomato soup?
You can mash some of the roasted vegetables back into the soup, or add a potato before blending for a creamier texture.
3. Is this tomato soup healthy?
Absolutely! It’s full of vegetables and can be made low in fat by omitting the cream.
4. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, tomato soup can be made in advance and reheated when you’re ready to serve.
5. What are good sides for tomato soup?
Grilled cheese, a fresh salad, or crusty bread are all excellent pairings.
Tomato soup made with fresh ingredients brings unparalleled warmth and flavor to your kitchen. It’s a delightful option for any meal, whether you’re seeking comfort on a rainy day or impressing guests with a homemade dish. Enjoy the simplicity and joy of creating this classic dish, and don’t forget to customize it to make it your own!
PrintTomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes
This Tomato Soup is a comforting blend of fresh, ripe tomatoes and roasted vegetables, creating a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 pounds ripe tomatoes (halved if small, quartered if large)
- 2 medium carrots (chopped)
- ½ medium onion (sliced)
- 4 cloves garlic (halved)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- ¼ cup fresh basil (plus more for serving)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup tomato paste (optional if your tomatoes are not very ripe)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- Combine tomatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano in a bowl. Toss until coated.
- Transfer to a baking sheet and roast for 40-45 minutes until charred.
- Blend the roasted mixture in a pot with fresh basil until smooth.
- Bring the blended soup to a gentle boil, stir in heavy cream, and let cook for a minute.
- Serve in bowls, garnished with additional basil.
Notes
Use ripe, seasonal tomatoes for the best flavor.
Adjust herbs and seasoning to your taste, and feel free to add a kick with red pepper flakes.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting and Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 6
- Cholesterol: 20