Tomato Soup: Theme And Variations
A warm, comforting tomato soup with rich flavors of tomato and savory seasonings, perfect for lunch or dinner, appealing to both casual and sophisticated palates.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and celery in butter until light brown.
- Add tomato puree and sugar.
- Saute for 1 minute.
- Add tomato juice.
- Simmer for 8 minutes.
- Add salt, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Strain the soup.
- Serve hot or chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the soup. You can substitute fresh tomatoes for the tomato juice if you prefer, just blend them until smooth. If you want a creamier soup, stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk at the end. For added texture, consider adding cooked rice or quinoa. This tomato soup pairs beautifully with Hot Cheddar Cheese Balls.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tomato soup hot or chilled, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor. It pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic combination. For a lighter option, serve alongside a fresh salad or browse more vegetarian recipes to complement your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Soup: Theme And Variations contains roughly 128 calories, with 4g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), iron (21% of the Daily Value), and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1414mg per serving (61% 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 tomato juice?
Yes, you can use canned crushed tomatoes in place of tomato juice. Simply blend the canned tomatoes until smooth, and adjust the seasoning as necessary to enhance the flavors. Keep in mind that using canned tomatoes may give the soup a thicker consistency, so you might need to add some water or broth to achieve your desired texture.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat to your tomato soup, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the mix. You can also sauté some minced jalapeños along with the onions and celery for a fresh kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance for a flavorful, spicy version of this classic dish.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this tomato soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
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).