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 cozy soup is perfect for chilly days and offers a deliciously creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread. It’s an easy, one-pot recipe that’s ready in 40 minutes or less—the ultimate lazy girl dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, this soup requires minimal prep and cooking time.
• Flavorful Comfort: Made with rich canned tomatoes, it delivers comfort food vibes any time of year.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand—substitute veggies or adjust spices to your taste.
• Creamy Texture: Finish with heavy cream or plant-based milk for a velvety finish.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this creamy tomato soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and helps you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot: Provides even heat distribution, preventing the soup from burning.
• Stand blender or immersion blender: Ensures a smooth, creamy consistency by blending ingredients thoroughly.
• Cutting board: Offers a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.

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Ingredients

To create your Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes), gather the following ingredients:

Base Ingredients

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

Flavor Boosters

• 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)

Main Components

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

Creaminess Factor

• 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 the Vegetables

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 3: Blend Until Creamy

1. Carefully transfer the soup to a stand blender in batches (no more than ⅔ full).
2. Remove the center cap from the blender lid; cover with a kitchen 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 Creaminess

1. Stir in your choice of cream or plant-based milk.
2. Cook over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally until warmed through.
3. Adjust seasoning to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle soup into bowls.
2. Top with cracked black pepper, additional crushed red pepper flakes, and fresh basil as desired.
3. Serve with crusty bread or a gooey mozzarella grilled cheese sandwich—enjoy!

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

Serving your Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup can elevate the experience. Here are some delightful ideas to enhance your meal.

Pair with Grilled Cheese

• A classic combination, a grilled cheese sandwich pairs perfectly with the rich soup. Opt for gooey mozzarella or sharp cheddar for maximum flavor.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh basil or parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, making each spoonful more vibrant and aromatic.

Add a Kick with Crushed Red Pepper

• If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving. This adds an exciting kick to the creamy soup.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious soup. Consider sourdough or whole grain for added texture.

Create a Soup Bar

• Set up a toppings bar with options like grated cheese, croutons, or chopped veggies. This allows everyone to customize their bowl to their liking.

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

To make your Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use High-Quality Canned Tomatoes: Choose brands that use ripe tomatoes for a richer flavor profile.
• Balance Acidity: If the soup tastes too acidic, add a pinch of sugar or more cream to balance out the flavors.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, thin it out with additional vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Experiment with Spices: Try adding different herbs like oregano or rosemary for a unique twist on flavor.
• Blend Thoroughly: Ensure the soup is blended until smooth for that luxurious texture; this can be done in batches if needed.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the soup cool slightly before serving allows flavors to meld together beautifully.

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

Complementing your Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup with side dishes enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Gooey Mozzarella Grilled Cheese
   A warm grilled cheese sandwich filled with melted mozzarella creates a classic comfort meal alongside tomato soup.

2. Cheesy Garlic Bread
   Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter and topped with cheese makes for an irresistible side that pairs perfectly with the soup.

3. Simple Green Salad
   A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds crunch and balances the richness of the soup.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasoned roasted vegetables bring sweetness and depth that complements the flavors in your creamy tomato soup nicely.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices offer a hearty side dish that pairs well without overshadowing the main event.

6. Savory Quiche
   A slice of quiche filled with seasonal vegetables adds protein and variety while remaining easy to prepare ahead of time.

7. Homemade Croutons
   Crunchy croutons made from stale bread tossed in herbs provide texture contrast when sprinkled on top of your soup.

8. Baked Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs serve as a satisfying side that guests will love dipping into their bowls of tomato goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Skipping the onion and garlic: These aromatics are essential for building flavor. Always start by sautéing them until fragrant.
• Not seasoning properly: Insufficient seasoning can lead to a bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Overcooking the vegetables: If you cook the vegetables too long before blending, they may lose their texture. Aim for a soft but not mushy consistency.
• Using low-quality canned tomatoes: The quality of canned tomatoes directly impacts the soup’s taste. Opt for high-quality brands or organic options when possible.
• Blending while too hot: Blending hot liquids can create pressure and mess. Allow the soup to cool slightly or blend in batches to ensure safety.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in airtight containers.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

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

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or 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 heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup:

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Just make sure to peel and chop them before cooking. You may need to adjust cooking time based on their ripeness.

How can I make this soup vegan?

To make Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup vegan, simply replace heavy cream with unsweetened plant milk like almond or oat milk.

What should I serve with my tomato soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How long does the soup last in the fridge?

Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when kept in an airtight container.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your soup by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables based on what you have on hand. Give it a try; it’s perfect for cozy nights at home!