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 peak-season flavor—even in the heart of winter! This soup is perfect for various occasions, from cozy weeknight dinners to warming gatherings. Its standout qualities include a rich, creamy texture and vibrant taste, making it an instant favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, this soup is a hassle-free option for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Utilize common pantry staples like canned tomatoes, ensuring you can whip it up anytime.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs and roasted garlic enhances the soup’s depth, making it a comforting bowl for any season.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pot (Dutch oven)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Stand blender or immersion blender
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot: Provides even heat distribution, preventing burning and ensuring your vegetables cook perfectly.
• Stand blender or immersion blender: Helps achieve that desired smooth texture effortlessly, allowing you to blend directly in the pot for convenience.

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Ingredients

Vegetables & Aromatics

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated

Flavor Enhancers

• 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)

Base Ingredients

• one 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable stock or broth
• optional: ½ cup dry, unoaked white apple vinegar

Creamy Component

• 2 cups heavy cream, milk, or unsweetened plant milk of choice (almond, oat milk, etc.)

Seasoning

• kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season

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

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the fresh basil, thyme, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and optional apple vinegar.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
3. Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
4. Partially cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

1. Carefully transfer the soup to a stand blender in batches (do not fill more than ⅔ full).
2. Remove the center cap from the lid; cover with a towel while blending for safety.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy; return to the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot.

Step 4: Add Cream

1. Stir in your choice of cream or plant milk into the blended soup.
2. Cook over medium-low heat until warmed through; adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle soup into bowls.
2. Top with cracked black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and fresh basil leaves as desired.
3. Enjoy with crusty bread or a melty cheese sandwich for extra comfort!

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

Serving Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup is all about enhancing its comforting flavors. There are many ways to enjoy this delicious soup, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. The texture pairs well with the creamy soup, absorbing its rich flavors.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• A classic pairing! Opt for a gooey mozzarella grilled cheese sandwich for a warm and satisfying meal that complements the tomato soup perfectly.

Fresh Basil Garnish

• Top each bowl with fresh basil leaves. This adds a burst of freshness and elevates the visual appeal of the dish.

Cracked Black Pepper

• Sprinkle cracked black pepper on top for an added kick. This enhances the overall flavor profile of your soup.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes

• Add crushed red pepper flakes if you like some heat. It gives an exciting twist to the creamy tomato soup.

Parmesan Cheese

• Consider grating some Parmesan cheese on top before serving. It adds a savory depth that enriches each spoonful.

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

Perfecting your Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup is easy with a few simple tips. These suggestions will ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use Quality Canned Tomatoes: Choose high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor and texture in your soup.
• Balance Acidity: If your soup tastes too acidic, add a pinch of sugar or more cream to balance it out.
• Adjust Thickness: For a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add less broth; for a thinner consistency, simply add more broth.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to substitute or add different herbs like oregano or parsley for unique flavors.
• Blend Until Smooth: Ensure you blend the soup until completely smooth—this gives it that luxurious creamy texture.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed for the perfect finish.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Gooey Mozzarella Grilled Cheese Sandwich
   A classic choice that melts beautifully in your mouth, perfect for dipping into the soup.

2. Simple Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing and croutons offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

3. Garlic Breadsticks
   Soft and buttery garlic breadsticks are great for dipping and soaking up every drop of deliciousness from your bowl.

4. Roasted Vegetable Platter
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients, creating a balanced meal alongside your creamy tomato soup.

5. Cheesy Quesadillas
   Stuffed with cheese and veggies, they provide a crispy texture that pairs well with the smoothness of the soup.

6. Herbed Couscous Salad
   Light and fluffy couscous mixed with herbs makes for a delightful side that complements the flavors of the tomato soup beautifully.

7. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Deliciously stuffed mushrooms offer savory bites that enhance your overall dining experience when served alongside the soup.

8. Spinach and Feta Pie
   A flaky pastry filled with spinach and feta provides an excellent savory addition to pair with tomato-based dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes) can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to steer clear of.

• Skipping the aromatics: Aromatics like onion and garlic build the foundation of flavor. Don’t rush this step; cook them until softened for a richer taste.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Seasoning is key to enhancing flavors. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Over-blending the soup: Blending too long can make the soup overly smooth, losing some texture. Blend just until creamy for the best consistency.
• Using low-quality canned tomatoes: The quality of canned tomatoes affects the final flavor. Opt for high-quality brands for a fresher taste.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh basil and thyme add brightness to your soup. Add them at the right time to preserve their flavors.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

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

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes).

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! You’ll need about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes, but remember that they may require longer cooking time.

How can I make this soup vegan?

To make it vegan, simply substitute heavy cream with unsweetened plant milk like almond or oat milk.

What should I serve with my tomato soup?

This creamy tomato soup pairs perfectly with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread for a comforting meal.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes) is not only comforting but also highly customizable. Add your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own. Give it a try; it’s perfect for any chilly day!