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

Made with ingredients like canned tomatoes, this Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup is the perfect meal for cold days. It offers a warm, comforting bowl of goodness that brings joy to any occasion—from cozy family dinners to casual gatherings with friends. With its simple preparation and rich flavor, this soup can easily become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe uses canned tomatoes and other pantry staples, making it a breeze to whip up in just 40 minutes.
• Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream creates a velvety mouthfeel that’s irresistible.
• Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it alone or pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food experience.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with veggies, this soup offers nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild taste makes it a hit with children, encouraging them to enjoy their vegetables.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process and make cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even heat distribution for perfect cooking.
• Stand blender or immersion blender: Provides a smooth texture by easily blending the soup ingredients to creamy perfection.

Ingredients

For the Base

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

For Flavoring

• 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)

For the Soup

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

For Creaminess

• 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: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and carrots. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook while stirring occasionally until softened (about 5-6 minutes).
4. Stir in garlic, tomato paste, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. Add basil, 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.
4. Cover partially and simmer for 15 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

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

Step 4: Finish with Cream

1. Stir in cream (or milk of choice) over medium-low heat.
2. Cook while stirring occasionally until warmed through.
3. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle soup into bowls.
2. Top with cracked black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and fresh basil if desired.
3. Serve alongside crusty bread or a gooey mozzarella grilled cheese sandwich for extra comfort!

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup!

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

Serving Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit your taste. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this comforting dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. The texture will complement the creamy soup perfectly.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• A classic pairing! Serve the soup alongside a gooey, melty grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food duo.

Fresh Salad

• A light, refreshing salad can balance the richness of the soup. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette.

Avocado Toast

• Top toasted bread with smashed avocado and season it with salt and pepper. This adds a creamy element that goes well with the tomato soup.

Parmesan Crisps

• Bake thin layers of grated Parmesan cheese until crispy. These add a crunchy texture and cheesy flavor that enhances each spoonful of soup.

Homemade Croutons

• Make croutons from leftover bread by tossing cubes in olive oil, seasoning, and baking until golden. They provide an excellent crunch when added to the soup.

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 for achieving that perfect flavor and texture.

• Use fresh herbs – Fresh basil and thyme enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried herbs.
• Adjust thickness – If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth or add more cream during cooking.
• Blend thoroughly – Ensure you blend the soup until completely smooth for a velvety finish.
• Season generously – Don’t hesitate to adjust salt and pepper after blending; flavors develop as it simmers.
• Add acidity – A splash of vinegar or lemon juice can brighten up the flavors at the end.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to add different spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for extra depth.

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

Enjoying Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup is all about finding the perfect side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of your delicious soup.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Spinach Artichoke Dip – A creamy dip served with tortilla chips can be a hearty addition to your meal.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Baked stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice create a filling side that pairs nicely with tomato flavors.
5. Zucchini Fritters – Crispy fritters offer a tasty, veggie-packed option that complements your creamy soup well.
6. Potato Wedges – Seasoned baked potato wedges bring an extra crunch and heartiness alongside the smoothness of the soup.
7. Cheese Platter – An assortment of cheeses adds variety and richness to your meal experience.
8. Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs offers an easy, flavorful side that’s great for scooping up soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes) can be simple, but certain mistakes can compromise its flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: If you cook the onions and carrots for too long, they can lose their flavor. Aim for a light sauté until they soften but not browned.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Insufficient seasoning can lead to a bland soup. Always taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper for balanced flavors.
• Skipping the Blending Step: Not blending the soup can leave it chunky rather than creamy. For a smooth texture, make sure to blend until fully incorporated.
• Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: The quality of canned tomatoes makes a big difference. Choose high-quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor in your soup.
• Forgetting Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme elevate the dish. Add them at the right time to ensure their vibrant flavors shine through.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container up to 4 days.
• Let the soup cool before sealing it in containers.

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

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring halfway through, for about 5-7 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes) so special?

This soup is made with canned tomatoes and pantry staples, making it easy yet delicious even in winter months.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! Simply use unsweetened plant milk instead of heavy cream to keep it vegan-friendly while maintaining creaminess.

How can I customize my Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes)?

Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or spinach or spices like cumin for a twist on flavor.

What should I serve with this tomato soup?

Pair it with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or even a fresh salad for a comforting meal.

How long does this soup last in the refrigerator?

The soup will stay fresh in an airtight container for about 4 days when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

This Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes) is not just comforting; it’s versatile too! With simple ingredients and quick prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own!

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Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Warm up this winter with our delightful Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup, a comforting dish made from canned tomatoes and pantry staples. In just 40 minutes, you can create a rich, creamy soup that is perfect for chilly days and cozy gatherings. The velvety texture is complemented by fresh herbs and vegetables, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. Serve it alongside a gooey grilled cheese sandwich or crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience that both kids and adults will enjoy. This recipe is simple enough for busy weeknights yet special enough to impress guests at your next gathering.

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Ingredients

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• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable stock
• 2 cups heavy cream
• Fresh basil and thyme

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and carrots until softened (5-6 minutes).
2. Stir in garlic and tomato paste; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable stock, and herbs; simmer partially covered for 15 minutes.
4. Blend soup until smooth using an immersion blender or transfer to a stand blender.
5. Stir in cream over medium-low heat; adjust seasoning as necessary.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 80mg