Middle-of-Winter Tomato Soup: 7 Cozy Comforting Tips

There’s just something magical about a warm bowl of homemade soup on a cold winter day, isn’t there? I can still remember the first time I made this Middle-of-Winter Tomato Soup. It was one of those dreary afternoons when the snow was falling gently outside, and I just needed something comforting to warm me up.

I whipped up this soup using canned tomatoes, and wow, it was like a hug in a bowl! Not only is it cozy and delicious, but using canned tomatoes makes it super quick and easy to throw together. I love how every spoonful is packed with flavor, and it’s perfect paired with some crusty bread. Trust me, once you try this soup, it’ll become your go-to winter comfort food!

Ingredients for Middle-of-Winter Tomato Soup (with Canned Tomatoes)

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this comforting bowl of warmth. I promise, it’s simple and straightforward!

• 2 cans of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz each): These are the star of the show! Look for high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: A sweet onion adds a lovely depth to the soup. Chop it finely so it softens nicely when cooked.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a game-changer! It brings a wonderful aroma and taste to the dish.
• 2 cups of vegetable broth: This is your liquid gold! Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the soup.
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil: This herb adds a cozy, aromatic touch. You can use fresh basil if you have it on hand!
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano: Another herb that complements tomatoes beautifully, giving that classic Italian flavor.
• Salt to taste: A little sprinkle goes a long way! Adjust it according to your preference.
• Pepper to taste: Freshly cracked pepper adds a nice kick! Start with a pinch and add more as you like.
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil: This is for sautéing the onion and garlic. It brings everything together and adds richness.

How to Prepare Middle-of-Winter Tomato Soup (with Canned Tomatoes)

Making this soup is a breeze! First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot and shimmering, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Ooh, that smell is heavenly!

Next, add in the 2 cans of diced tomatoes (drained or undrained, your call!), 2 cups of vegetable broth, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all those flavors to mingle and deepen!

After simmering, grab an immersion blender and blend the soup until it’s nice and smooth. Don’t have one? No problem! You can carefully transfer it in batches to a regular blender. Just be sure to let it cool slightly first to avoid any splatters. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve it hot, maybe with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for that extra touch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Warm, comforting flavors that are perfect for chilly winter days.
• Made with canned tomatoes, making it quick and easy to prepare.
• Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
• A delightful blend of herbs that elevate the soup’s taste.
• Rich, smooth texture that feels indulgent without being heavy.
• Perfect paired with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.
• Vegetarian-friendly and easily adaptable to suit your dietary needs.

Tips for Success with Middle-of-Winter Tomato Soup (with Canned Tomatoes)

To make sure your Middle-of-Winter Tomato Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips I swear by! First, don’t skip the sautéing step—cooking the onion and garlic until they’re soft really brings out their sweetness and adds depth to the flavor. Also, feel free to taste as you go; adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper at the end can make a huge difference!

If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of it and leave the rest as is. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream right before serving gives it a rich, velvety finish. Lastly, always let it simmer long enough; the longer it sits, the better the flavors meld together. Trust me, these little tweaks can elevate your soup from good to absolutely amazing!

Variations of Middle-of-Winter Tomato Soup (with Canned Tomatoes)

If you’re feeling creative, there are so many fun ways to jazz up your Middle-of-Winter Tomato Soup! One of my favorite twists is adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat—just enough to warm you from the inside out! Or, try stirring in some fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of simmering for a lovely pop of color and extra nutrients.

You can also switch up the herbs! Fresh thyme or rosemary can give the soup a different flavor profile, while a splash of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy depth that’s simply delightful. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some roasted red peppers or even a spoonful of pesto for a touch of gourmet flair. The best part? You can personalize it to match your taste buds or what you have on hand. So go ahead, get creative and make it your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Middle-of-Winter Tomato Soup (with Canned Tomatoes)

Storing your Middle-of-Winter Tomato Soup is super easy! Just let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days, so you can enjoy those cozy flavors throughout the week! If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave a little space in the container, as soup tends to expand when frozen.

When you’re ready to reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge if it’s frozen. Then, pour it into a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If it seems too thick, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Trust me, there’s nothing better than a warm bowl of this soup, even days after making it!

Nutritional Information for Middle-of-Winter Tomato Soup (with Canned Tomatoes)

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information for a serving of this delightful Middle-of-Winter Tomato Soup. A single cup has approximately 150 calories, with 7 grams of fat (only 1 gram of that is saturated!), and 3 grams of protein. It also contains about 20 grams of carbohydrates and 4 grams of fiber, making it a satisfying option for a cozy meal. Just remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, so feel free to adjust as needed for your dietary preferences!

FAQ about Middle-of-Winter Tomato Soup (with Canned Tomatoes)

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Sure! If you prefer fresh tomatoes, about 2 pounds should do the trick. Just be sure to peel and chop them before adding to the pot.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just sauté the onion and garlic first, then add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours for a deliciously melded flavor.

How can I make this soup creamier?
If you want a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk right before serving. It adds a rich finish that’s simply divine!

What can I serve with this soup?
I love pairing it with crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich. A side salad also makes a lovely addition for a complete meal.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Just make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring to an airtight container. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

What to Do Next

If you’ve enjoyed making my Middle-of-Winter Tomato Soup, I’d love to hear from you! Please leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out or if you made any fun variations. Don’t forget to give it a rating—your feedback means the world to me! And if you think your friends would love this cozy recipe too, feel free to share it on social media. Let’s spread the warmth of homemade soup together!

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