Name: Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
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; Up to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 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; ½ cup dry, unoaked white wine (optional); 2 cups heavy cream, milk, or unsweetened plant milk of choice; Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season

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Ah, the magic of a warm bowl of tomato soup on a chilly winter day! This Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup holds a special place in my heart, as it was a cozy creation born in my little kitchen during a snowstorm. I can still remember the gentle snowfall outside while I stirred the velvety soup, letting the warmth envelop me like a hug. Walking into my kitchen was like stepping into a hug of roasted tomatoes, aromatic basil, and the earthy goodness of sautéed onions. From the first spoonful to the last, each flavor transports me to a cozy café in Italy, making the world outside disappear.

So, sweet friends, if you crave comfort on a dreary winter day, I invite you to gather your ingredients and join me. This creamy tomato soup is not just a dish but a little bowl of happiness waiting to happen. You’ll love it just as I do, because it’s rich, delicious, and, above all, so easy to whip up using canned tomatoes—no need for fancy ingredients here!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy and Quick: Ready in under an hour, this is a perfect solution for busy weeknights.
Canned Goodness: Using canned tomatoes means peak flavor without the fuss of fresh.
Healthful Comfort: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends; it satisfies even the pickiest of eaters!
Customizable: You can easily adapt the flavors and add your favorite ingredients.

Recipe Snapshot

Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and adding a lovely depth of flavor.
1 large yellow onion, diced: Sweet and aromatic, perfect for building the base.
3 medium carrots, diced: Adds natural sweetness and a vibrant color.
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated: The heart of flavor! Fresh garlic brings warmth and depth.
4 tablespoons tomato paste: Optional, but it caramelizes for a beautiful, rich flavor.
optional: up to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: For a spicy kick—add or leave it out!
1 cup fresh basil leaves and tender stems: Bright, aromatic, and screams “freshness.”
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or generous pinch dried thyme): Earthy and fragrant; it harmonizes everything perfectly.
one 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes: The star of the show! Choose a good quality brand for the best flavor.
2 cups vegetable stock or broth: Provides the body and soul to the soup.
optional: ½ cup dry, unoaked white wine: Adds depth; a splash of cooking wine can elevate the flavors beautifully.
2 cups heavy cream, milk, or unsweetened plant milk of choice (almond, oat milk, etc.): Creates that luscious creaminess.
kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season: Essential for bringing out all those magical flavors.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Heat the Oil

In a heavy-bottomed pot with a lid (like a Dutch oven), heat the olive oil over medium heat. As soon as it shimmers, you know it’s time to add the veggies!

Sauté the Veggies

Once the oil is hot, toss in the diced onion and carrots. Season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and a dash of pepper. Stir occasionally as they soften, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas for about 5-6 minutes.

Add Garlic and Paste

Now, let those flavors deepen! Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting the tomato paste caramelize and the garlic release its delightful fragrance.

Combine Ingredients

Next, add the fresh basil, thyme, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and the wine (if using). Give it all a good stir and bring it to a gentle boil. Smell that? It’s pure bliss! Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer, partially covering the pot. Let it cook for 15 minutes until everything is tender and perfectly melded together.

Blend it Up

Now comes the fun part! Carefully transfer the soup to a stand blender in batches, filling the blender no more than ⅔ full. Remove the center cap from the lid and cover the hole with a thick kitchen towel as you blend until smooth and creamy. If you have an immersion blender, feel free to blend it right in the pot—easy peasy!

Creamy Finish

Return the smooth soup to the pot and stir in your choice of cream (or milk). Keep the heat on medium-low, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. Adjust the seasoning to taste. Don’t forget that little sprinkle of salt and pepper to make the flavors pop!

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into individual bowls and top with cracked black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and a few fresh basil leaves. Enjoy with a piece of crusty bread or a Gooey Mozzarella Grilled Cheese Sandwich for the ultimate warm embrace!

Pro Tips for Success

Use quality ingredients: Fresh herbs and good-quality canned tomatoes make a world of difference.
Adjust thickness: If the soup is too thick for your liking, add a bit more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Taste as you go: Always adjust the seasoning towards the end for the best flavor!
Get creative: Add your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personalized touch.

Flavor Variations

Add greens: Spinach or kale can be stirred in during the last few minutes for extra nutrition.
Spicy twist: Try adding diced jalapeños for an extra spicy version.
Cheesy delight: Stir in a handful of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for an extra layer of richness.

Serving Suggestions

This luscious soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a gooey grilled cheese or a fresh arugula salad drizzled with balsamic glaze. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for presentation!

Make-Ahead & Storage

Prep your ingredients ahead of time, and chop veggies for a quick assembly later. Cool any leftover soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Leftovers

Transform any leftovers into a pasta sauce! Simply toss with cooked pasta and a sprinkle of cheese for a delightful meal.

Freezing

Yes, this soup freezes wonderfully! Let it cool completely, then pour into freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also use the microwave, but be sure to heat in short intervals to prevent splattering.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, but you’ll need about 3 pounds of ripe tomatoes, peeled and crushed along with some added liquid.

Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Just swap the cream for coconut milk or unsweetened plant milk, and omit any cheesy additions.

Can I skip the blending?
Of course! If you prefer a chunkier soup, skip this step and enjoy the rustic texture.

How can I enhance the flavor more?
Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a spoon of sugar to balance the acidity.

Final Thoughts

There’s something absolutely soul-soothing about a warm bowl of Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup. It’s a recipe that invites you to slow down, breathe in the delightful aromas, and enjoy the simple pleasures of home cooking. So next time the winter winds howl outside, remember there’s warmth to be found in your own kitchen. Grab your ingredients, and let’s make some magic together! Much love from my kitchen to yours—happy cooking!