Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes)

Made with pantry staples like canned tomatoes and tomato paste, this Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes) bursts with flavor—even in the heart of winter! This soup is perfect for cozy nights, easy weeknight dinners, or when you need a comforting bowl of warmth. With just a handful of ingredients and a one-pot approach, you can create a delicious dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 40 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of canned tomatoes and fresh herbs creates a rich, satisfying taste.
• Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort food combo.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies and low in calories, this soup is as healthy as it is delicious.
• Easy Cleanup: A one-pot recipe means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the following essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pot (Dutch oven)
• Stand blender or immersion blender
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot: Provides even heat distribution, preventing burning during cooking.
• Stand blender or immersion blender: Essential for achieving that smooth, creamy texture in the soup.
• Cutting board: Keeps your kitchen organized while chopping vegetables.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts for evenly cooked ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 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

For Creaminess

• optional: ½ cup dry, unoaked white grape juice (see Recipe Notes)
• 2 cups heavy cream, milk, or unsweetened plant milk of choice (almond, oat milk, etc.)

To Season

• kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season

How to Make Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrots. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, tomato paste, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

Add basil, thyme, crushed tomatoes, vegetable stock, and optional grape juice to the pot. Stir well to combine. Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Partially cover the pot and simmer for 15 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

Carefully transfer the soup to a stand blender. Blend in batches if necessary. Remove the center cap from the lid and cover with a towel while blending to avoid splatters. Blend until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Stir in heavy cream or plant milk of choice into the blended soup. Cook over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally until heated through. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls. Top with cracked black pepper, extra crushed red pepper flakes, and fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve alongside crusty bread or a Gooey Mozzarella Grilled Cheese Sandwich for an even cozier meal!

Enjoy this delightful Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes) as your go-to comfort food on chilly days!

How to Serve Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes)

Serving Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup is all about comfort and warmth. This creamy delight pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments, enhancing the overall experience.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• A classic pairing, a gooey grilled cheese sandwich made with your favorite cheese melts perfectly into the soup, providing a delightful contrast in textures.

Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping. Freshly toasted or warm, it’s perfect for scooping up the rich tomato flavor.

Fresh Basil Garnish

• Add a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and an aromatic touch that elevates the soup’s presentation and flavor.

Avocado Toast

• Pairing the soup with avocado toast brings creaminess and healthy fats to the meal, creating a satisfying lunch or dinner option.

Side Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup while adding freshness and crunch.

Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables can complement the soup beautifully, adding depth and nutrition to your meal.

How to Perfect Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes)

To ensure your Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use quality canned tomatoes: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for a richer flavor that enhances the soup’s overall taste.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference to achieve a well-rounded flavor.
• Blend thoroughly: For maximum creaminess, blend the soup until completely smooth. This ensures a velvety texture that makes every spoonful delightful.
• Customize creaminess: Feel free to substitute heavy cream with plant-based milk if desired; just make sure it’s unsweetened for balance.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding other herbs like oregano or parsley for extra flavor dimensions that can elevate your soup.
• Serve hot: Enjoy your soup piping hot to fully appreciate its comforting essence during cold winter days.

Best Side Dishes for Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes)

Pairing side dishes with Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A crunchy garlic bread adds extra flavor and texture while being perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.

2. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side that complements the richness of the soup.

3. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice provide a hearty side that pairs nicely with tomato flavors.

4. Vegetable Spring Rolls
   Crisp spring rolls filled with colorful veggies offer a light option that contrasts beautifully with creamy tomato soup.

5. Cheesy Quesadillas
   Simple quesadillas filled with melted cheese can be dipped into the soup, making them an irresistible snack alongside.

6. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side dish that adds heartiness to your meal.

7. Chickpea Salad
   A protein-packed chickpea salad tossed in lemon and herbs provides a nutritious option that balances out the meal.

8. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes offers a lovely contrast to the tangy tomato flavors in this comforting soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes), there are a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your soup. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the aromatics: Failing to sauté the onion, garlic, and carrots first can lead to a bland soup. Make sure to cook these ingredients until they’re softened and fragrant for maximum flavor.
• Not using enough seasoning: Some people underestimate the importance of seasoning. Always taste your soup as you cook and adjust the salt and pepper accordingly to enhance the overall flavor.
• Blending too much at once: Overfilling the blender can cause splatters and uneven blending. Blend in batches, keeping it no more than ⅔ full for a smoother consistency.
• Using low-quality canned tomatoes: The quality of your canned tomatoes makes a big difference. Opt for high-quality crushed tomatoes for a richer flavor and better texture.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh basil and thyme add depth to your soup. Don’t skip them! Add them towards the end of cooking for optimal freshness.
• Cooking on high heat: Rapid boiling can alter the soup’s texture. Maintain a gentle simmer instead to develop flavors without losing creaminess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes)

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes).

Can I make Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes) vegan?

Yes! Simply use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk instead of heavy cream.

What can I serve with this soup?

This creamy tomato soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a fresh salad.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total time is about 40 minutes, including prep and cooking times.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

While canned tomatoes work best for convenience, you can use fresh tomatoes if you have them available. Just ensure they are ripe for optimal flavor.

How do I customize my soup?

Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers or incorporate different spices like Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for added depth.

Final Thoughts

The Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes) is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite herbs or spices. Enjoy this cozy dish any weeknight, and don’t hesitate to explore new pairings!