How to Make Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes

There’s something magical about a bowl of homemade tomato soup. It’s warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor—especially when you use fresh tomatoes. Forget the canned stuff; this recipe is all about celebrating the natural sweetness and tanginess of ripe tomatoes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, I’ll walk you through the process step by step. Trust me, it’s easier than you think, and the results are totally worth it.

What You’ll Need

Before we dive in, let’s gather the ingredients. You probably have most of these in your kitchen already, but if not, they’re easy to find at any grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 lbs of fresh tomatoes – Go for ripe, juicy ones. Heirloom or Roma tomatoes work great.
• 1 medium onion, chopped – Yellow or white onions are perfect for this.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced – Because what’s soup without garlic?
• 3 cups of vegetable or chicken broth – Use whatever you have on hand or prefer.
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil – Extra virgin is my go-to for that rich flavor.
• 1 tablespoon of tomato paste – This adds depth and richness to the soup.
• 1 teaspoon of sugar – Just a pinch to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish – Because presentation matters, right?

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we’ve got everything ready, let’s get cooking. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a pot of delicious tomato soup in no time.

1. Prep the Tomatoes

First things first: we need to peel those tomatoes. I know, it sounds like a hassle, but it’s actually pretty simple. Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly. Then, cut a small ‘X’ at the bottom of each one. This will make peeling a breeze. Next, blanch them in boiling water for about a minute—just until you see the skins start to loosen. Quickly transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once they’re cool, the skins should slide right off. Chop the tomatoes into chunks, and you’re good to go.

2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and let them cook until they’re soft and translucent—about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. The smell alone will make your kitchen feel like a cozy café.

3. Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Now, stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Let everything cook together for about 5 minutes, until the tomatoes start to break down and release their juices. Pour in the broth, and season with salt, pepper, and that teaspoon of sugar. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes. This is where the magic happens—the flavors meld together, and your kitchen will smell amazing.

4. Blend It Up

Once the soup has simmered, it’s time to blend. If you have an immersion blender, this is the perfect time to use it. Just stick it right into the pot and blend until the soup is smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the mixture. No immersion blender? No problem. You can use a regular blender, but be careful—hot soup can splatter. Work in batches, and don’t fill the blender more than halfway.

5. Taste and Adjust

Here’s the fun part: tasting! Grab a spoon and give the soup a try. Does it need more salt? A pinch more sugar? Maybe a dash of pepper? Adjust the seasoning until it’s just right. Cooking is all about making it your own, so trust your taste buds.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle a little olive oil on top or sprinkle some Parmesan cheese. Serve it hot, and watch as everyone asks for seconds.

What to Serve with Your Tomato Soup

Tomato soup is a classic for a reason—it’s versatile and pairs well with so many things. Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions:

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich – The ultimate comfort food combo. Dip that crispy, cheesy sandwich right into the soup.
• Crusty Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up every last drop.
• Side Salad – Keep it light with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon.

And there you have it—a simple, delicious recipe for tomato soup made with fresh tomatoes. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, a quick lunch, or even a dinner party starter. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those extra tomatoes from your garden or the farmers’ market. So, what are you waiting for? Grab those tomatoes and get cooking!