Simple & Creamy Tomato Soup
This quick and easy tomato soup delivers rich, comforting flavor with minimal effort, perfect for a cozy meal or light lunch. Its creamy texture and balanced tang make it a family favorite.
For 4 servings
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried oregano, and granulated sugar. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Carefully remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until it is completely smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender (filling only halfway and venting the lid) and blend until smooth, then return to the pot.
Return the pot to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and heat through for 2-3 minutes, without boiling. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, if desired, and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Balance Acidity: A small pinch of sugar or a tiny splash of balsamic vinegar can significantly balance the acidity of the tomatoes, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- 2High-Quality Tomatoes: The quality of your canned tomatoes makes a big difference. Look for San Marzano or other high-quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor.
- 3Immersion Blender Safety: When using an immersion blender, ensure the head is fully submerged before turning it on to prevent splattering. Move it slowly through the soup.
- 4Don't Boil Cream: Once you've added the heavy cream, avoid bringing the soup to a rolling boil, as this can cause the cream to separate or curdle.
Adapt it for your goals.
Dairy-Free/Vegan
Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative (like cashew cream) for a rich, dairy-free version.
Roasted Tomato FlavorRoasted Tomato Flavor
For a deeper, sweeter tomato flavor, roast fresh tomatoes (halved, tossed with olive oil, salt, pepper) at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes before adding them to the soup base.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce along with the tomatoes for a subtle or pronounced spicy warmth.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Lycopene
Canned tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help protect against certain diseases and promote skin health. Cooking tomatoes actually increases the bioavailability of lycopene.
Vitamin & Mineral Boost
Tomatoes provide essential vitamins like Vitamin C and K, and minerals like potassium, contributing to overall immune function and bone health.
Digestive Health
The fiber content in tomatoes, though reduced after blending, still contributes to digestive regularity and gut health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
