This velvety tomato soup delivers rich flavor with wholesome, simple ingredients, making it a perfect choice for cozy meals.
Packed with fiber, plant-based nutrients, and heart-healthy fats, it’s both nourishing and satisfying.
Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Comfort and health meet in every bowl.
Classic Tomato Soup
Equipment
- 1 large Dutch oven or heavy-bottom pot
- 1 immersion blender (or high-speed blender)
- 1 chef’s knife
- 1 cutting board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 medium yellow onions diced
- 1 celery rib diced
- 1 medium carrot peeled and diced
- 6 garlic cloves minced
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 2 28 oz cans whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Optional garnishes: fresh herbs heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, parmesan crisps, extra olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients Carefully: Before you begin cooking, gather all ingredients and tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Dice the yellow onions into small, even pieces for uniform cooking. Peel the carrot and cut it into small cubes. Dice the celery rib finely. Mince the garlic cloves so they release their full aroma later. This preparation stage ensures even cooking and maximizes flavor.
- Heat the Cooking Base: Place a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottom pot on the stovetop over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, mixing gently with the oil. This combination creates a rich base with balanced flavor and aroma, while the olive oil adds heart-healthy fats to the dish.
- Sauté Aromatic Vegetables: Once the oil and butter mixture is shimmering and fragrant, add the diced onions, celery, and carrot to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the vegetables soften. This process develops the base flavor of the soup, creating a warm, savory foundation for the tomatoes.
- Add Garlic and Herbs: Add the minced garlic to the softened vegetables, stirring quickly so the garlic cooks evenly without burning. Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon dried thyme, 1½ teaspoons kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper. Stir for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant and the seasonings evenly coat the vegetables. This step layers in aromatic depth and enhances the final flavor of the soup.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in two 28-ounce cans of whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes along with 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Use a wooden spoon to gently break apart the tomatoes while stirring them into the mixture. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then immediately lower the heat to a simmer. Simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering stage allows the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken naturally.
- Blend to Creamy Perfection: After simmering, it’s time to create the smooth texture that makes tomato soup so comforting. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup until creamy and smooth. For an ultra-smooth texture, transfer the soup in batches to a high-powered blender, blending carefully and returning each batch to the pot. If desired, add a few tablespoons of heavy cream at this stage for extra richness and a velvety mouthfeel.
- Adjust Consistency and Flavor: Taste the blended soup and adjust seasonings as needed. If the soup is too thick, stir in ½ to 1 cup of broth or water to achieve your preferred consistency. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. This step gives you control over the final texture and flavor, ensuring a soup that perfectly suits your preferences.
- Serve with Thoughtful Garnishes: Ladle the hot tomato soup into bowls. For a gourmet touch, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese, add parmesan crisps, or garnish with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley. These garnishes not only add visual appeal but also introduce complementary flavors and textures, enhancing the eating experience.
- Storage and Reheating Guidance: This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4–5 days. To freeze, place in freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. This makes it a practical option for meal prep or last-minute comfort meals.
- Final Serving Tips: Serve this classic tomato soup with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh side salad for a wholesome meal. Pairing with whole grain bread boosts fiber content, while adding fresh herbs or a swirl of cream makes the dish more luxurious and satisfying. Enjoy as a hearty weekday dinner or a comforting weekend treat.
Notes
- For best flavor, use San Marzano canned tomatoes, as they offer a naturally sweet, rich taste.
- Ensure vegetables are diced evenly to cook uniformly and release maximum flavor.
- Adjust salt and pepper gradually, tasting during cooking to get the perfect seasoning.
- For a smoother texture, blend the soup in batches with a high-speed blender instead of using an immersion blender.
- Adding heavy cream is optional but enriches the soup, balancing acidity and adding creaminess.
Chef’s Secrets To Perfect Soup
The key to making a truly memorable tomato soup lies in building flavor gradually.
Start by sautéing the vegetables slowly until they soften, as this step develops a rich foundation.
Use San Marzano tomatoes for their naturally sweet, tangy flavor that eliminates the need for excess seasoning.
Simmering the soup slowly allows flavors to blend deeply, and blending in batches with a high-powered blender creates an ultra-smooth, luxurious texture.
Adding a small amount of cream enhances mouthfeel without overpowering the fresh tomato taste.
Lastly, don’t rush seasoning — adjust salt, pepper, or herbs after blending to ensure a balanced final product.
Serving Suggestions For Maximum Enjoyment
This tomato soup is delightfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of foods.
Serve it alongside a crisp grilled cheese sandwich for a classic comfort pairing.
Add crusty artisan bread or homemade garlic bread for a hearty meal.
For a lighter option, pair the soup with a fresh green salad tossed with olive oil and lemon.
For a gourmet twist, garnish with fresh basil, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, and parmesan crisps.
This soup also works wonderfully as a starter for multi-course meals or a wholesome lunch with a side of roasted vegetables.
Storage Tips For Freshness
Proper storage preserves flavor and texture.
Store the cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
For longer storage, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.
If the soup thickens after chilling, add a splash of broth or water while reheating to return it to the desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes — simply use vegetable broth and replace butter with extra olive oil or plant-based margarine. This keeps the soup plant-based while maintaining a rich, satisfying flavor.
2. How can I make tomato soup less acidic?
Adding a few tablespoons of heavy cream or coconut cream softens acidity while enriching texture. You can also add a small pinch of sugar or a grated carrot during cooking for a natural sweetness.
3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely — fresh, ripe tomatoes work wonderfully but will require longer cooking. Roast or simmer them until soft before blending. You’ll need about 3–4 pounds of fresh tomatoes for the same yield.
4. What blender is best for making this soup?
A high-powered blender is ideal for smooth texture, but an immersion blender works well for convenience and minimal cleanup. Blending in batches ensures consistent creaminess.
5. Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Yes — this soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it up to 2 days ahead and reheat gently when needed. It also freezes beautifully for later use.
