Name: Healthy Tomato Soup: A Classic Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 ripe tomatoes, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 carrot, chopped; 1 celery stalk, chopped; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp honey or maple syrup; ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste); ¼ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); ¼ cup coconut milk or Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess); Fresh basil, for garnish

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tomato soup is a timeless dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. This healthy version of the classic recipe is packed with nutrients, made from fresh ingredients, and is both low in calories and high in flavor. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a cozy dinner, or a starter for a more elaborate meal. Plus, it’s easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious meal option or just a delicious bowl of homemade goodness, this recipe is for you.

Ingredients

Ripe tomatoes
Onion
Garlic
Olive oil
Vegetable or chicken broth
Carrots
Celery
Fresh basil
Tomato paste
Honey or maple syrup
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Coconut milk or Greek yogurt (for creaminess, optional)

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients – Chop the tomatoes, onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic.
Sauté the Aromatics – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the Tomatoes and Broth – Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are soft and flavors are well combined.
Blend the Soup – Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender and blend in batches.
Season and Enhance Flavor – Return the soup to the pot, season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir in honey or maple syrup for a touch of natural sweetness.
Add Creaminess (Optional) – For a creamy texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk or Greek yogurt.
Serve and Garnish – Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy hot.

Variations

Roasted Tomato Version: Roast the tomatoes before adding them to the soup for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Dairy-Free & Vegan: Stick to coconut milk instead of Greek yogurt for a plant-based option.
Protein Boost: Stir in cooked quinoa or lentils for extra nutrition.
Herb-Infused: Experiment with thyme, oregano, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6 bowls

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How can I make the soup thicker?

Blend in a boiled potato or add a small amount of cooked rice before blending for extra thickness.

Can I use canned tomatoes?

Yes! If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, canned whole or crushed tomatoes work well.

What can I pair with tomato soup?

Grilled cheese, crusty bread, or a simple salad make excellent accompaniments.

How do I prevent my soup from tasting too acidic?

Balancing the acidity with a small amount of honey, maple syrup, or a pinch of baking soda helps.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, then blend.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth.

Can I add protein to this soup?

Yes, add shredded chicken, beans, or lentils for a protein boost.

How do I make it extra creamy?

Use coconut milk, Greek yogurt, or a splash of heavy cream.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh basil adds a brighter flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil in place of fresh.

What’s the best way to reheat frozen soup?

Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Conclusion

This healthy tomato soup is a classic recipe that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy meal on a chilly evening or pair it with your favorite side, this nutritious dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it out today and experience the comforting goodness of homemade tomato soup!

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