Homemade Tomato Soup – Quick, Fresh & Flavorful

Last updated on November 21, 2025

There’s something inherently cozy about a warm bowl of tomato soup, isn’t there? For me, it evokes memories of chilly afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the smell of simmering tomatoes danced through the air. I remember biting into a crusty grilled cheese sandwich, dipping it into that velvety red goodness, and feeling all my worries melt away. If you’ve ever craved that comforting sensation or found yourself in search of a simple yet delicious dish, you’re in the right place. This tomato soup recipe is not only easy to follow but also packed with flavor, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned chefs and kitchen newbies alike.

So, if you think making a home-cooked tomato soup is a daunting task, let me reassure you: this step-by-step guide will make it simple, stress-free, and totally doable—even if it’s your very first try.

Why I Love This Tomato Soup Recipe

This tomato soup recipe holds a significant place in my heart, not just because of the nostalgia it brings, but also due to the vibrant flavors that bloom with each spoonful. Whether you’re looking for comfort food on a rainy day or a savory starter for a dinner party, this recipe has you covered. I love how it transforms simple ingredients into something magical, all while being easy enough for beginner cooks. The process of roasting Roma tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, heightening the flavors in a way that canned varieties simply cannot compete with. Plus, the addition of heavy cream at the end creates a richness that is truly irresistible. This dish brings people together—not just at the dinner table but in the joy of cooking it. It reminds us of the warmth of home and the love we share through food.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Tomato Soup Recipe

Homemade Tomato Soup

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• Author: Sarah Mendez
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

A hearty, aromatic Mediterranean-style soup made with spinach, lentils, fragrant spices, and fresh herbs. This nourishing recipe balances warm spices, bright lime, and tender lentils for a comforting yet vibrant dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 large garlic clove, chopped
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 1/2 teaspoons sumac
• 1 1/2 teaspoons crushed red peppers
• 2 teaspoons dried mint flakes
• Pinch of sugar
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 3 cups water
• 12 ounces frozen cut leaf spinach
• 1 1/2 cups green lentils or small brown lentils, rinsed
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 cups chopped flat-leaf parsley
• Optional: Chickpeas
• Optional: Carrots or celery, finely chopped
• Optional: Other leafy greens (kale, Swiss chard)

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Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
2. Add the chopped garlic, coriander, cumin, sumac, crushed red peppers, dried mint, and a pinch of sugar. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to combine, allowing it to coat the onions and spices.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and water. Raise the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
5. Add the frozen spinach and rinsed lentils. Stir to combine, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Stir in the lime juice and chopped parsley. Remove from heat, cover, and let rest for 5 minutes.
7. Serve hot with pita bread or rustic bread for dipping.

Notes

• Add chickpeas for extra protein and heartiness.
• Red lentils can be used but will cook faster and change the texture.
• Adjust spice level by reducing or increasing crushed red peppers.
• Add more water or broth if the soup becomes too thick.
• Carrots or celery add extra depth and nutrition.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Mediterranean lentil soup, spicy spinach soup, vegan lentil soup, healthy soup recipe, Middle Eastern soup, hearty lentil stew

Having the right ingredients is crucial for creating a delicious tomato soup. Here’s what you’ll need, broken down into essentials plus some optional add-ons for those who want to take it to the next level.

Essentials

• 1 ½ pounds Roma tomatoes: These tomatoes are ideal as they’re meaty and flavorful, perfect for roasting.
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Used for roasting, it adds depth and richness.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For sautéing the onions and garlic, giving a luxurious feel to the soup.
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds a foundational flavor to the mix.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Because everything is better with garlic.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced: This aromatic herb complements the tomatoes beautifully.
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: A shortcut to deepen the tomato flavor without the effort of peeling fresh tomatoes.
• 2 cups basil leaves, roughly chopped: Fresh basil adds a bright, herbal flair.
• 2 tablespoons dried basil: Perfect for those days when you don’t have fresh herbs on hand.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth: Use this to create a flavorful soup base without overwhelming saltiness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your soup.
• ⅔ cup heavy cream: Makes the soup creamy and velvety.

Optional Add-Ons

• A pinch of red pepper flakes: For a subtle kick if you like a bit of heat.
• Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle on top creates an extra layer of flavor and garnishing elegance.

Substitutions and Shortcuts

If you’re pressed for time, canned diced tomatoes can serve as a fast alternative to the fresh ones. However, try to use quality brands that are low in sodium. For those on a dairy-free diet, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter option that still retains creaminess.

How to Make Tomato Soup Recipe Step-by-Step

Creating your own tomato soup might sound intimidating, but I assure you, it’s a simple, rewarding process! Let’s break it down step-by-step.

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your tomatoes will roast perfectly.

2. Roast the Tomatoes

Spread the sliced Roma tomatoes onto a baking sheet, cut sides facing up. Drizzle them with the extra virgin olive oil, ensuring that they’re well-coated. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Pop them in the oven and let them roast for about 45 minutes until they’re soft and slightly caramelized.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

While the tomatoes are roasting, take a large pot and set it over medium-high heat. Add the unsalted butter, allowing it to melt fully. Once melted, toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it’s translucent and fragrant. This builds a great base flavor for your soup.

4. Add Garlic and Thyme

Next, stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme. Sauté for another 5 minutes, allowing the two to infuse their flavors together. The aroma will transport you to a comforting kitchen full of warmth.

5. Combine the Tomato Base

Once your onions and garlic are perfectly sautéed, add the canned crushed tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, dried basil, and sugar to the pot. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Stir it all together, and reduce the heat to medium or medium-low. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

6. Combine Everything

Take the roasted tomatoes out of the oven and add them to your pot. Don’t forget the delicious juices that have collected on the baking sheet! Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and add a bit more salt and pepper as needed. Bring everything to a gentle simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. Blend into Velvet

Carefully pour the soup into a blender and blend until it’s silky smooth. You may want to do this in batches, depending on the size of your blender. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also use an immersion blender right in the pot to achieve that smooth texture without transferring it.

8. Add Creaminess

Pour the blended soup back into the pot and stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated. This adds the rich creaminess that is the essence of classic tomato soup. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to heat through.

9. Serve with Fresh Basil

Ladle the delicious soup into bowls and top each with fresh basil leaves for that vibrant finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Tomato Soup

Even simple recipes can sometimes lead to mishaps. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid for your best tomato soup ever.

Not Choosing the Right Tomatoes

Using tomatoes that are overripe or underripe can lead to a bland soup. Stick with Roma tomatoes for the desired flavor and texture.

Overcooking the Garlic

Garlic can go from beautifully fragrant to burnt in a matter of seconds. Keep an eye on it while sautéing, and don’t let it darken too much!

Skipping the Roasting Step

Roasting the fresh tomatoes is a game changer. Skipping this step might rob your soup of the depth of flavor only roasting can provide.

Forgetting to Taste

Always taste as you go along! Each ingredient can alter the flavor profile, so adjust the salt, pepper, and sugar as needed.

Serving Suggestions

While tomato soup is delightful on its own, serving it with a little extra love can elevate your meal. Here are some ideas to consider:

With Grilled Cheese

The classic pairing of tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches is not merely a cliché; it’s a time-honored tradition for a reason! The crunch of a perfectly toasted sandwich dipped into the creamy soup is pure bliss.

Crusty Bread or Baguette

Serve your soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh baguette. You can use it to soak up the soup or enjoy as a delicious accompaniment on its own.

Mixed Green Salad

For a light and refreshing contrast, consider serving your tomato soup with a side salad. Mix arugula with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and a vinaigrette dressing for a zesty touch.

Pesto Drizzle

Elevate the flavor further by drizzling some homemade or store-bought pesto on top of your soup for a herbaceous twist.

Pro-Level Tips for When You’re Ready

Once you’ve mastered the basics of tomato soup, you might want to take your culinary prowess to the next level. Here are a few tips just for you:

Experiment with Different Herbs

While basil and thyme are wonderful, try experimenting with other herbs like rosemary or dill for unique flavors. You could even incorporate a touch of oregano to add an Italian flair.

Add Heat

If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños when cooking the onions for a fiery kick.

Garnish Creatively

For a professional touch, garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, or even a dollop of crème fraîche to make your soup look as good as it tastes.

Make It Ahead

Tomato soup is one of those dishes that taste even better the next day. Make a big batch, store in the refrigerator, and let the flavors develop overnight.

Conclusion & Next Steps

In conclusion, you can see that making your own tomato soup is easier than it looks! Not only is it a classic comfort dish, but the cozy, inviting flavors make it perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite herbs, making it your own version of this beloved recipe. Whether you enjoy it on a rainy day or as part of a dinner party, this soup comes highly recommended and is decidedly beginner-approved.

So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! If you try this tomato soup recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or even any of your twists on this classic dish!

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FAQs About Tomato Soup Recipe

Now, go ahead and create your own delightful bowl of tomato soup!