3 Easy Tomato Soup Recipes for a Cozy Night

There's nothing quite like a comforting bowl of tomato soup to make your night feel cozy and heartwarming. Whether you're winding down after a long day, looking to impress with a simple yet delicious dish, or simply craving the taste of home, these three easy tomato soup recipes are perfect for you. Let's dive into the warm, savory world of homemade tomato soup, where every spoonful is a hug in a bowl.

Recipe 1: Classic Tomato Basil Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken stock
• 1⁄4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Tomatoes and Basil: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, letting them cook down with the onions and garlic for about 10 minutes until they release their juices.
3. Simmer: Pour in the stock, add salt, and pepper, then let it simmer for 20 minutes. Drop in the fresh basil leaves just before you blend.
4. Blend: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot, or transfer to a blender in batches. Ensure the soup is smooth. If using heavy cream or coconut cream, stir it in now for a creamier texture.
5. Serve: Serve hot, possibly garnished with a swirl of cream and a basil leaf.

💡 Note: For a more vibrant color, use ripe red tomatoes. Roma tomatoes work great here.

Recipe 2: Spicy Roasted Tomato Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs Roma tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium red onion, quartered
• 3 cloves garlic, unpeeled
• 1 red bell pepper, deseeded and quartered
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1⁄2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1⁄2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Roast: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the tomatoes, onion, garlic, and bell pepper on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until everything is nicely charred.
2. Combine: Squeeze the roasted garlic out of their skins, then transfer everything to a pot. Add the broth and bring to a simmer.
3. Blend: Use an immersion blender to achieve a smooth consistency, or blend in a regular blender. Add more broth if you prefer a thinner soup.
4. Adjust Heat: Taste and add red pepper flakes for spiciness. Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley.

🌶️ Note: This recipe can be adjusted to your heat preference by increasing or decreasing the red pepper flakes.

Recipe 3: Creamy Tomato Bisque

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs vine-ripened tomatoes
• 1 carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1⁄4 cup tomato paste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar
• Fresh thyme or oregano for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté: In a pot, heat the olive oil, then add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until vegetables are soft, about 10 minutes.
2. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the tomato paste, tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Purée: Blend the soup until smooth. Return to the pot if using a blender.
4. Cream: Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to make the soup rich and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance acidity.
5. Garnish and Serve: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of cream.

🌱 Note: For an extra depth of flavor, consider using a splash of white wine in the sautéing step.

As we've explored these three delightful tomato soup recipes, you can see how versatile and comforting tomato soup can be. Whether you opt for the simplicity of the Classic Tomato Basil Soup, the fiery zest of the Spicy Roasted Tomato Soup, or the rich indulgence of the Creamy Tomato Bisque, each brings its unique warmth to the table. Remember, cooking is not just about feeding yourself but also about creating moments of comfort and joy. So next time you find yourself looking for a cozy night in, let these recipes guide you to a bowl of homemade goodness that truly nourishes the soul.

Can I make these soups vegetarian or vegan?

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Yes, indeed! For vegetarian options, simply use vegetable broth. For vegan options, swap out any dairy cream with coconut cream or opt for a splash of coconut milk. All recipes can be easily adapted to suit vegan diets by avoiding animal products completely.

What can I serve with these tomato soups?

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Tomato soups pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some suggestions:

• Grilled cheese sandwich
• Crusty bread or garlic bread
• Simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Biscuits or cheese crackers
• A side of roasted vegetables or a fresh tomato bruschetta

How long will these soups last in the fridge?

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When stored in an airtight container, homemade tomato soup can last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Always reheat thoroughly before serving to ensure safety.