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 comforting soup is perfect for cozy nights, quick weeknight dinners, or a warm lunch. Its rich and creamy texture will tantalize your taste buds and keep you feeling nourished.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Creamy Comfort: The addition of cream creates a velvety texture that elevates the flavors.
• Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it alone or serve it alongside a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food experience.
• Pantry-Friendly: Made primarily with canned tomatoes, it’s a great way to use up pantry staples.
• Flavorful Herbs: Fresh basil and thyme add depth and aroma to the dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand can make all the difference in achieving the perfect consistency and flavor.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pot (Dutch oven)
• Stand blender or immersion blender
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even heat distribution, preventing burning while cooking the vegetables.
• Stand blender or immersion blender: Helps achieve that smooth, creamy texture essential for this soup.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

Ingredients

• 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
• optional: ½ cup dry, unoaked white apple vinegar (see Recipe Notes)
• 2 cups heavy cream, milk, or unsweetened plant milk of choice (almond, oat milk, etc.)
• kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season

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

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Once hot:
1. Add the diced onion and carrots.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook for about 5–6 minutes until softened slightly.
4. Stir in garlic, tomato paste, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Simmer Soup Base

Add fresh herbs and liquids to deepen the flavors:
1. Add basil, thyme, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and apple vinegar if using.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
3. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
4. Cover partially and simmer for about 15 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

Transfer the soup to a stand blender:
1. Work in batches if necessary; fill no more than two-thirds full.
2. Remove the center cap from the lid; cover with a kitchen towel while blending for safety.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy before returning to the pot.

Step 4: Incorporate Cream

Stir in the cream or milk of choice:
1. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
2. Adjust seasoning as needed with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle soup into bowls:
1. Top with cracked black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and fresh basil if desired.
2. Serve hot alongside crusty bread or a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for an extra treat! Enjoy your comforting bowl of Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup!

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

Serving your Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup can elevate the cozy experience of this comforting dish. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with a slice of freshly baked crusty bread for dipping. The bread will soak up the flavors and add a satisfying texture.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• Enjoy a gooey grilled cheese sandwich alongside the soup. The melty cheese complements the creamy tomato flavor perfectly.

Fresh Basil Garnish

• Top each bowl with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and fragrance. The herbal note will brighten the dish.

Cracked Black Pepper

• Sprinkle cracked black pepper over the soup before serving for an added kick. This simple touch enhances the overall flavor profile.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes

• For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes on top. It provides a spicy contrast to the creaminess of the soup.

A Drizzle of Olive Oil

• Finish each bowl with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for richness. This adds depth and extra flavor to your soup.

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

Perfecting your Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results.

• Use Quality Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for rich flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are an excellent choice.
• Blend Thoroughly: Ensure you blend the soup until it’s completely smooth for that luxurious texture. A creamy consistency is key.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Every batch may need slight variations in salt and pepper.
• Choose Your Cream Wisely: If you prefer a lighter option, use unsweetened plant milk instead of heavy cream, while still achieving creaminess.
• Fresh Herbs Matter: Always use fresh herbs when possible for maximum flavor impact. They make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Simmer Long Enough: Allow the soup to simmer long enough to develop flavors fully, ideally around 15 minutes after adding the broth.

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

Complementing your Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup with tasty side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that pair beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, providing both crunch and flavor.
2. Caprese Salad: A fresh Caprese salad with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil adds brightness and balances out the richness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Serve a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables as a healthy side that enhances your meal’s nutrition.
4. Cheese Quesadillas: Quick and easy cheese quesadillas make for great dippers and add a cheesy element to your dining experience.
5. Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad offers freshness and crunch, making it an ideal accompaniment to warm soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Hearty stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide substance and pair well with tomato flavors.
7. Spinach Artichoke Dip: This creamy dip served with tortilla chips or baguette slices makes for a decadent starter.
8. Vegetable Chips: Crispy vegetable chips can serve as a crunchy side, adding texture contrast while keeping things light and fun.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes) can be simple, but there are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking the onion and carrots too long can lead to mushiness. Aim for a light sauté until just softened.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Failing to season during cooking can result in bland soup. Be sure to add salt and pepper at various stages for depth of flavor.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cream or broth can shock the soup. Warm these ingredients slightly before mixing to maintain a smooth texture.
• Not Blending Enough: A chunky soup may not provide the creamy consistency you desire. Blend thoroughly until smooth for that luxurious texture.
• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Dismissing fresh basil and thyme will reduce flavor complexity. Always use fresh herbs when possible for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The soup lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

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

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It 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 heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking.

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! Just peel and chop them, and remember that you’ll need about 2 pounds for this recipe.

How do I make this soup vegan?

To make it vegan, replace heavy cream with unsweetened plant milk like almond or oat milk and ensure all vegetable stock is plant-based.

What should I serve with my tomato soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.

How can I customize the spices?

Feel free to add your favorite spices such as paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor profile of your soup.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

The total time is around 40 minutes, including both prep and cooking time, making it a quick option for dinner!

Final Thoughts

This Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes) is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and comforting. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors with different herbs and spices while still being easy enough for any weeknight meal. Give it a try today!