Tomato Herb Soup
A comforting tomato herb soup with fragrant herbs and toasted bread, perfect for a cozy meal. Rich flavors suit all tomato lovers and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 medium onions, chopped ⓘ
- 4 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil ⓘ
- 3 cloves garlic, minced ⓘ
- 1 bay leaf ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves ⓘ
- 3/4 teaspoon dried marjoram leaves ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups water ⓘ
- 8 slices French bread, toasted ⓘ
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy soup pot over medium heat and sauté onions until lightly browned.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes more.
- Raise heat to high and add minced garlic, bay leaf, dried thyme, dried marjoram, black pepper, and water.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium and cook for 15 minutes.
- Puree soup, 2 cups at a time, in a blender.
- Return soup to the pot and reheat to a boil over high heat.
- Place two slices of toasted French bread in each serving bowl.
- Ladle soup over bread and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a tablespoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. You can substitute fresh herbs for dried if you have them on hand; use three times the amount of fresh herbs. If you want a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream after blending. This soup pairs particularly well with Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, ladled over the toasted French bread and topped with grated Parmesan cheese. This dish is excellent as a light lunch or dinner, and you can pair it with a simple salad, such as a Poor Man Linguini Salad or Spinach With Parmesan, for a complete meal. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the soup from becoming too thick. You may need to add a little water to achieve your desired consistency. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to leave out the bread and cheese until serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Herb Soup contains roughly 1904 calories, with 36g protein, 255g carbohydrates, and 88g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (126% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (76% of the Daily Value), and protein (72% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2463mg per serving (107% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes can be used as a convenient substitute. Opt for whole or diced tomatoes in juice or puree for the best flavor. Just reduce the cooking time after adding them, as they are already cooked. Adjust seasoning as needed since canned tomatoes can vary in sweetness and acidity.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño along with the garlic. You could also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick. Just be cautious with the amount, as you can always add more but can't take it out once it's in.
What can I serve alongside this soup?
This Tomato Herb Soup pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. A green salad or Mediterranean Bread makes for a refreshing side. For a heartier option, consider serving with a slice of quiche or grilled cheese sandwiches. Many enjoy it as a starter to a larger meal, making it versatile for any occasion.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).