If you’re in search of a comforting and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort and time, look no further than this simple tomato soup. This delightful dish brings together the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes and aromatic herbs to create a warm bowl of goodness that your family will love. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a delicious homemade soup that rivals anything from a restaurant. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a starter for any meal, this simple tomato soup is versatile enough to suit any palate. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with a grilled cheese sandwich, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Simple Tomato Soup

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Simple Tomato Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Canned Whole Tomatoes: Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor; San Marzano tomatoes are an excellent choice.
• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; dice it finely to ensure even cooking.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide depth; use about three cloves minced for an aromatic base.
• Vegetable or Chicken Broth: Choose low-sodium broth to control salt content while enhancing flavor.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for sautéing the onions and garlic until fragrant.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Simple Tomato Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add two tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about five minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes

Pour in the canned whole tomatoes along with their juices. Use a wooden spoon to break them down slightly as they cook.

Step 3: Incorporate Broth

Add four cups of vegetable or chicken broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Season the Soup

Season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs like basil or oregano. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Blend Until Smooth

After simmering for about fifteen minutes to meld flavors, use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer batches into a regular blender.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency and Serve

If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more broth as needed. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving hot.

Transfer to bowls and drizzle with olive oil or garnish with fresh basil leaves for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients will elevate the flavor of your soup significantly.
• Add Creaminess: For a creamier texture, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

This simple tomato soup is not only easy to make but also delightful to enjoy on any day!

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How to Serve Simple Tomato Soup

This Simple Tomato Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

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Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the tomato soup ingredients a day in advance. Chop vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This will save time during cooking.
• Storing: Leftover Simple Tomato Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, pour the soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until hot, usually about 10 minutes. Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl for about three minutes, stirring halfway through.

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Suggestions for Simple Tomato Soup

Avoid Using Overly Ripe Tomatoes

Using overly ripe tomatoes can lead to a soup that is too sweet and lacks the fresh flavor you want in a simple tomato soup. When selecting tomatoes, look for ones that are firm but slightly yielding to pressure. The ideal tomatoes for your soup should have a vibrant color, indicating freshness and ripeness without being overly mushy. If your tomatoes are past their prime, the taste will be affected, resulting in an unbalanced and less enjoyable dish. For the best results, use vine-ripened or Roma tomatoes, as they provide a richer flavor profile and better texture in your soup.

Don’t Skip the Aromatics

A common mistake when making simple tomato soup is skipping aromatic ingredients such as onions, garlic, and herbs. These components add depth and warmth to the flavor of your soup. Start by sautéing onions until they’re translucent, then add minced garlic to enhance the taste. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can elevate your dish significantly. Even a pinch of dried oregano can provide layers of flavor that complement the tomatoes beautifully. Neglecting these aromatics may leave your soup tasting flat and one-dimensional.

Avoid Overcooking Your Soup

Overcooking is a pitfall many encounter when preparing simple tomato soup. While it might seem tempting to let your soup simmer for an extended period, doing so can break down the tomatoes too much and result in a loss of vibrant flavor. Instead, allow the ingredients to meld together at a gentle simmer; this maintains their integrity while ensuring you achieve a delicious blend of flavors. Ideally, once all components are combined, cook only until heated through and flavors meld—usually around 20 minutes.

Don’t Forget Seasoning Adjustments

Under-seasoning is another common error when making simple tomato soup. Salt plays a crucial role in enhancing flavors; however, it’s important to add it gradually throughout cooking rather than all at once at the end. Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust accordingly. Additionally, consider balancing acidity with sugar or adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice toward the end of cooking for brightness. This careful seasoning adjustment will lead to a well-rounded flavor profile that truly highlights the tomatoes.

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FAQs

What type of tomatoes are best for simple tomato soup?

When making simple tomato soup, using high-quality tomatoes is essential for achieving an excellent flavor. Varieties like San Marzano or Roma are favored due to their rich taste and low moisture content, which creates a thicker consistency without excessive wateriness. Vine-ripened tomatoes also work well because they’re picked at peak ripeness, offering sweetness and acidity balance in your dish. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available or if you’re short on time, canned whole or crushed tomatoes are excellent alternatives since they’re often canned at peak ripeness. Always choose options labeled “no salt added” or “BPA-free” for healthier choices.

Can I make simple tomato soup vegan?

Absolutely! Simple tomato soup can easily be made vegan by omitting any dairy products like cream or cheese typically used for creaminess or garnish. Instead, consider using coconut milk or cashew cream as dairy-free alternatives that lend richness without altering the fundamental flavors of your dish. Furthermore, ensure that any vegetable broth used is free from animal products to keep it fully plant-based. With these adjustments, you’ll create a delicious vegan version of simple tomato soup that everyone can enjoy.

How long does simple tomato soup last in the fridge?

Simple tomato soup can be stored safely in the refrigerator for up to five days when properly sealed in an airtight container. To maximize freshness and avoid spoilage, allow the soup to cool completely before placing it in storage containers; this prevents condensation from forming inside that can lead to unwanted moisture buildup. When reheating leftovers, do so gently on low heat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through; adding a splash of water or vegetable broth can help restore its original consistency if it thickens during storage.

Can I freeze simple tomato soup?

Yes! Freezing simple tomato soup is an excellent way to preserve its freshness for later enjoyment. To freeze your soup effectively, allow it to cool completely after cooking before transferring it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top of containers to allow for expansion during freezing. It’s advisable to label each container with the date before placing them in your freezer; this way you’ll know how long they’ve been stored—generally up to three months is recommended for optimal flavor retention.

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Conclusion for Simple Tomato Soup

In summary, creating a delicious bowl of simple tomato soup involves selecting quality ingredients and avoiding common mistakes like overcooking and neglecting seasonings. Remember to use firm yet ripe tomatoes paired with aromatic vegetables like onions and garlic for depth of flavor while adjusting seasoning throughout cooking ensures balance within every spoonful. Embracing these tips will enhance your overall experience while making this comforting dish at home! Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread, this simple tomato soup recipe promises warmth and satisfaction with every serving.