There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of fresh tomato soup—especially when it’s made from scratch with real, juicy tomatoes. Unlike canned versions, this homemade recipe captures the natural sweetness and tanginess of ripe tomatoes, giving you a wholesome and refreshing taste in every spoonful. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a cozy dinner starter, or a healthy snack option, fresh tomato soup is always a satisfying choice.
Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, and packed with essential vitamins such as Vitamin C and A, this soup isn’t just delicious—it’s also nourishing. Plus, it’s quick to make, uses simple pantry ingredients, and can easily be customized with cream, herbs, or croutons to suit your taste.
🍅 Tomato Soup Ingredients:
- Ripe tomatoes – 4 to 5 medium-sized (roughly chopped)
- Onion – 1 small (chopped)
- Garlic cloves – 2 to 3 (chopped)
- Carrot – 1 small (optional, for natural sweetness)
- Butter or oil – 1 to 2 tablespoons
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon (or to taste)
- Sugar – ½ teaspoon (optional, balances acidity)
- Water or vegetable broth – 1 to 1½ cups
- Fresh cream – 1 tablespoon (optional, for garnish)
- Bay leaf – 1 (optional, for added flavor)
- Fresh basil or coriander leaves – for garnish (optional)
Step-by-step Instructions:
- Heat butter or oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
- Add garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and carrot (if using). Cook for 7-10 minutes until tomatoes soften.
- Add water or vegetable broth and the bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf and blend the mixture until smooth using a blender or immersion blender.
- Return the blended soup to the pot, add salt, black pepper, and sugar (if using). Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Heat the soup gently for another 3-5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with a swirl of fresh cream and some fresh basil or coriander leaves if desired.
Nutritional Info (approximate per serving):
- Calories: 90-120 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 g
- Protein: 2-3 g
- Fat: 4-6 g (depends on butter/cream used)
- Fiber: 3-4 g
- Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin C, A, and antioxidants from tomatoes
Variations & Tips:
- Creamy Tomato Soup: Add ½ cup cream or milk while simmering for a richer texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add red chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking.
- Herbs: Try thyme, oregano, or rosemary instead of bay leaf for different flavor notes.
- Roasted Tomatoes: Roast the tomatoes before cooking for a smoky flavor.
- Vegan Version: Use olive oil instead of butter and skip cream or use coconut cream.
- Thicker Soup: Add a small boiled potato or bread crumbs while blending to thicken the soup.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread.
- Garnish with fresh basil, coriander leaves, or a swirl of cream for extra flavor.
- Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich or a light salad for a complete meal.
- Add croutons or roasted nuts on top for some crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make tomato soup without cream?
A: Yes, you can skip the cream to make it lighter or vegan-friendly. Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
Q: How long does tomato soup stay fresh?
A: Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat before serving.
Q: Can I freeze tomato soup?
A: Yes, tomato soup freezes well. Cool it completely and freeze in portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q: How can I make the soup thicker?
A: Add a boiled potato or some bread crumbs while blending to thicken the soup.
