If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s easy to whip up and packed with fresh garden flavors, this Simple Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe will quickly become your go-to. There’s something magical about turning ripe, juicy tomatoes into a velvety soup that warms your soul and pleases your palate. This recipe combines just a handful of simple ingredients, allowing the natural sweetness and acidity of tomatoes to shine, all while infusing a subtle hint of basil and garlic aroma. Perfect for any day when you want a homemade meal without any fuss, this soup is a timeless classic that’s as satisfying as it is straightforward.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Although it might seem like just a few items, each ingredient in this Simple Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe is crucial to build layers of flavor, perfect texture, and that vibrant color we all adore. Nothing fancy or hard to find, just fresh goodness that speaks for itself.
- Fresh Tomatoes (2 pounds): Ripe and juicy, these are the heart of your soup and give it that beautiful fresh tomato flavor.
- Onion (1 medium): Finely diced to add a gentle sweetness and depth as it sautés.
- Garlic (2-3 cloves): Minced for that rich, aromatic lift that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
- Vegetable Broth (4 cups): Low-sodium preferred to control seasoning while providing a flavorful liquid base.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Extra virgin for sautéing the aromatics and adding smoothness.
- Fresh Basil (1 handful): Torn leaves add a bright, herbal note that enhances every spoonful.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon): Just enough to balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes without overpowering.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to bring the soup to life.
How to Make Simple Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
Start by washing your tomatoes well, removing the stems and any blemishes. Chop them into quarters to make sure they cook down faster and blend smoothly eventually. Using fresh tomatoes truly elevates this recipe from ordinary to extraordinary.
Step 2: Sauté Onions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and add the diced onions. Cook them gently for about 5 minutes, stirring often until they turn translucent and slightly sweet. This step builds the soup’s savory foundation.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Next, toss in your minced garlic. Sauté just for another 1-2 minutes until you can smell that beautiful garlicky aroma, but be careful not to burn it—burnt garlic can get bitter.
Step 4: Cook Tomatoes
Now it’s time for those star ingredients. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and let them cook down for about 10 minutes. You’ll see them soften and release their juices, which forms the rich base for your soup.
Step 5: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. This step allows all those fresh flavors to meld together and deepen.
Step 6: Blend to Perfection
Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree your soup right in the pot. Blend to your favorite consistency—whether silky smooth or with a bit of texture, it’s up to you.
Step 7: Final Touches
Return the soup to low heat and stir in the sugar and torn fresh basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to your taste and let it simmer gently for another 5 minutes so the herbs release their magic.
Step 8: Taste and Adjust
Give your soup a final taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. This step is all about making sure every spoonful is just right before you ladle it into bowls and enjoy.
How to Serve Simple Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Serving your tomato soup with fresh basil leaves adds a lovely burst of color and fresh flavor that complements the warmth of the soup perfectly. You can also sprinkle a little cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil on top for an extra flavor boost.
Side Dishes
This Simple Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic grilled cheese sandwiches for a nostalgic combo, or crusty bread dipped right into the soup. For a lighter option, a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the bowl! Serve the soup in mini bread bowls for a rustic, fun presentation, or offer individual mason jars for a charming, portable option at gatherings. A swirl of cream or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts makes for an elegant touch if you’re serving guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Simple Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this tomato soup without losing its freshness. Let it cool completely, then pour into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will last for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top to allow for expansion.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it’s too thick after refrigeration or freezing, add a little water or broth to loosen the texture without sacrificing flavor.
FAQs
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Absolutely! While fresh tomatoes give the soup a vibrant taste and color, good quality canned tomatoes can be a wonderful substitute, especially when fresh tomatoes are out of season.
Is this soup suitable for vegans?
Yes! This Simple Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe uses only plant-based ingredients, making it naturally vegan and perfect for anyone looking for a dairy-free, wholesome meal.
Can I add cream or milk to make it creamier?
You certainly can if you like a creamier texture. Stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking to add richness and a silky mouthfeel.
How spicy is this soup? Can I add heat?
This soup is mild and comforting by default, but feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you enjoy a little heat to brighten it up.
What’s the best way to blend the soup if I don’t have an immersion blender?
No immersion blender? No problem! Carefully transfer your soup in batches to a regular blender and puree until smooth. Just take care not to overfill and to vent the lid slightly to avoid pressure build-up.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day and brings fresh, natural flavors straight to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or sharing it with friends, it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, and enjoy the joy of cooking something truly simple and delicious!
Print
Simple Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and simple homemade tomato soup made from fresh ripe tomatoes, sautéed onions and garlic, simmered with vegetable broth and fresh basil. This recipe balances the natural acidity of tomatoes with a touch of sugar and seasonings for a smooth, aromatic soup perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 pounds Fresh Tomatoes (Ripe and juicy tomatoes for the base of the soup)
- 1 medium Onion (Diced finely to add depth and sweetness)
- 2–3 cloves Garlic (Minced for aromatic richness)
Liquids & Fats
- 4 cups Vegetable Broth (Low-sodium broth preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Extra virgin for sautéing)
Seasonings & Herbs
- 1 handful Fresh Basil (Torn leaves to enhance flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Sugar (To balance acidity)
- Salt and Pepper to taste (Essential for seasoning)
Instructions
- Prepare the tomatoes: Wash and prepare the fresh tomatoes by removing stems and any blemishes, then chop them into quarters to create the base for the soup.
- Sauté onions: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and tender.
- Add garlic: Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, enhancing the soup’s aromatic profile.
- Cook tomatoes: Incorporate the chopped tomatoes into the pot and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing them to break down and release their natural juices.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes to meld flavors.
- Blend the soup: Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired smoothness, creating a creamy texture.
- Season and finish: Return the soup to low heat, stir in sugar, torn basil leaves, and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer gently for another 5 minutes to incorporate the flavors.
- Adjust and serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for an appealing presentation.
Notes
- Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Adjust the sugar to balance acidity based on the tomatoes’ natural tartness.
- For a richer soup, you can add a splash of cream or coconut milk before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- For a chunkier texture, blend partially or pulse with a blender instead of fully pureeing.
