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Bowl of best tomato soup garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of cream on a wooden table

Best Tomato Soup

This best tomato soup is a comforting and nutritious dish, perfectly combining sweet, tangy tomatoes with rich flavors. It's an easy tomato soup recipe that's quick to make and ideal for healthy eating.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, or an additional 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 medium yellow onions, chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 (28-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, and their juices
  • 3 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1⅓ cups heavy cream, plus more for drizzling *
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add the onion, carrots, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
  • Stir in the balsamic vinegar for a pop of acidity, then add the tomatoes along with their juices, water or broth, cream, thyme, red pepper flakes, and sea salt.
  • Bring everything to a simmer and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender enough to blend.
  • Scoop about 4 cups of the soup into a separate bowl and set aside. This will give your soup a slightly chunky texture later on.
  • Transfer the remaining soup to a blender and puree until smooth. Be careful with the hot liquid—blend in small batches or use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
  • Return the pureed soup to the pot with the reserved chunky mixture. Stir to combine and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with a drizzle of cream, a splash of olive oil, freshly cracked black pepper, and a few basil leaves for a bright finish.

Notes

This best tomato soup is everything you want in a nourishing, wholesome meal. Ready to share your twist? Let us know how you customized it!