When the weather turns chilly, a warm and comforting bowl of creamy tomato soup is just what the doctor ordered. But why settle for just any old recipe when you can elevate your soup game with the bright flavors and aromas of fresh herbs? In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 20 different creamy tomato soup recipes, each featuring a unique herb combination that will add depth and excitement to this classic comfort food.
From the simplicity of classic basil to the boldness of roasted garlic, there’s something for every taste and style. Whether you’re a fan of spicy soups or prefer your flavors mellow, we’ve got you covered with these creamy tomato soup recipes featuring fresh herbs. So grab a spoon and let’s dive in!
Classic Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
A warm and comforting soup that’s perfect for any season, this classic recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil and a hint of creaminess. With its rich flavor profile and velvety texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, broth, and salt. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Let it heat through for 1-2 minutes or until warm and creamy.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped basil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup
Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of roasted garlic and fresh tomatoes in this comforting soup perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and halved
– 4 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the tomato halves on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt.
3. Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they’re tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and roasted garlic cloves in a little bit of olive oil until softened.
5. Add the roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream (if using) to the pot.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Tomato and Red Pepper Soup
A vibrant and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the heat of red peppers. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, red bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Tomato and Parmesan Soup
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this comforting soup, perfect for a cozy night in. This creamy delight combines fresh tomatoes, savory Parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the tomatoes, chicken broth, and basil; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Rosemary Soup
Experience the flavors of Italy with this vibrant and aromatic soup that combines sun-dried tomatoes, fresh rosemary, and rich chicken broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 3 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, and rosemary sprigs.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato and Carrot Bisque
Start your meal with a warm and comforting bowl of this vibrant bisque, perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the tanginess of tomatoes for a deliciously unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 2 cups chopped fresh carrots
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add chopped tomatoes and carrots, broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Purée the mixture with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender in batches.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Tomato and Lentil Soup with Thyme
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of tomatoes with the earthy flavor of lentils, all infused with the warmth of thyme. Perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, tomatoes, broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tomato and Coconut Milk Soup
A warm and comforting blend of fresh tomatoes, rich coconut milk, and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy evening or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chopped tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
6. Bring the soup to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato and Avocado Gazpacho
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on traditional gazpacho! This creamy soup combines ripe tomatoes, silky avocado, and a hint of smokiness from paprika.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, avocado, bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
4. Add paprika and stir for 1 minute.
5. Pour in the blended mixture and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato and Orzo Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors, with the sweetness of tomatoes and the nutty taste of orzo pasta. Serve it as a starter or alongside your favorite sandwich for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and orzo pasta to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato and Fennel Soup
This hearty soup combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the anise-like flavor of fennel, creating a delightful and refreshing meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, chopped
– 1 large bulb fennel, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chopped fennel and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, vegetable broth, and canned diced tomatoes.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato and Spinach Soup with Cream
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of this creamy soup, packed with the flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh spinach.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
5. Just before serving, stir in fresh spinach leaves until wilted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato and Chickpea Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with the sweetness of tomatoes and the creaminess of chickpeas. It’s a simple and satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, chickpeas, vegetable broth, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Blend the soup until smooth, then serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tomato and Cilantro Lime Soup
This refreshing soup combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, cilantro, and lime juice to create a light and zesty meal perfect for warm weather. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has reached desired consistency.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with a hearty and comforting bowl of tomato and wild rice soup, perfect for any season. This recipe combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes with the nutty flavor of wild rice, all in a rich and creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup wild rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped tomatoes, wild rice, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until rice is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return it to the pot.
4. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tomato and Mushroom Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of tangy tomatoes and earthy mushrooms, making it a great option for a comforting meal on a chilly day. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this delicious soup in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (such as button or cremini)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato and Barley Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the nutty flavor of barley. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the fresh tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes), pearled barley, vegetable broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-50 minutes or until the barley is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Tomato and Pesto Soup
This classic Italian-inspired soup combines the rich flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil with the vibrant zing of pesto, creating a deliciously creamy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to break down (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in the pesto and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the soup has reached your desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato and Leek Soup
This classic soup combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the subtle flavor of caramelized leeks, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. This recipe is quick to prepare and can be served as a starter or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only
– 3 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped leeks and cook until caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until softened.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tomato and White Bean Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the creaminess of cannellini beans.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can, 14.5 oz)
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add tomatoes, beans, broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of tomato soup with these 20 creamy recipes featuring fresh herbs! From classic combinations like Tomato Basil to innovative twists like Sun-Dried Tomato and Rosemary, there’s something for every taste. Roasted Garlic adds depth to Tomato Soup, while Spicy Tomato and Red Pepper gives a kick. Other highlights include Creamy Tomato and Parmesan, Tomato and Carrot Bisque, and more. Each recipe showcases the versatility of tomato soup with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, cilantro, and parsley. Perfect for cozying up on a chilly day or impressing your friends at a dinner party!
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