Warm up this winter with a comforting bowl of creamy tomato soup that is sure to hit the spot. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it perfect for cozy nights in or for sharing with loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The blend of flavors in this soup is simply irresistible, with the perfect balance of sweetness from the tomatoes and creaminess from the heavy cream.
- With minimal prep time, this recipe is great for busy weeknights when you want a hearty and satisfying meal.
- This soup is also ideal for meal prep, as it can be easily stored and reheated for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner.
Ingredient Notes:
- Olive oil: Adds richness and depth to the soup.
- Yellow onion, carrots, garlic: These aromatic vegetables provide a flavorful base for the soup.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle kick of heat.
- Fresh basil and thyme: Herbs that enhance the overall taste of the soup.
- Crushed tomatoes: The main ingredient that gives the soup its rich tomato flavor.
- Vegetable stock: Adds depth and richness to the soup.
- White wine (optional): Enhances the flavors of the soup.
- Heavy cream, milk, or plant milk: Adds creaminess to the soup.
- Salt and pepper: Seasonings to taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion, carrots, and garlic until softened.
- Add tomato paste, red pepper flakes, basil, thyme, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable stock. Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in white wine (if using) and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Helpful Tips:
- For a vegan version, use plant milk instead of dairy cream.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Allow the soup to simmer for at least 20 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this creamy tomato soup with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a satisfying meal. For a cozy night in, serve with a glass of red wine or a cup of hot tea.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I freeze this soup? Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? While fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried herbs as a substitute.
- Can I omit the wine from the recipe? Yes, the wine is optional and can be omitted if desired.
Conclusion:
Warm up this winter with a bowl of homemade creamy tomato soup that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal or shared with friends, this recipe is a must-try for soup lovers. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out!
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Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful creamy tomato soup, perfect for chilly winter days. Made with a combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and creamy milk, this soup is sure to be a comforting favorite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
- 4 tablespoons tomato paste
- optional: up to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves and tender stems
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or generous pinch dried thyme)
- one 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable stock or broth
- optional: ½ cup dry, unoaked white wine
- 2 cups heavy cream, milk, or unsweetened plant milk of choice
- kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion, carrots, and garlic until softened.
- Add Flavors: Stir in tomato paste, red pepper flakes, basil, thyme, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable stock. Simmer for flavors to meld.
- Blend: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Finish: Stir in cream or milk, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the amount of red pepper flakes used.
- For a lighter version, opt for unsweetened plant milk instead of heavy cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg