Got a pantry overflowing with canned tomatoes? You’re in luck! Canned tomatoes are a versatile and budget-friendly kitchen staple, perfect for whipping up delicious and satisfying meals. From cozy soups to hearty pasta sauces, using canned tomatoes unlocks a world of culinary possibilities. This post is packed with the best canned tomato recipes designed to help you transform those humble cans into culinary masterpieces.
So, let’s dive in and explore the amazing dishes you can create with just a few simple ingredients and a can (or two!) of tomatoes.
What is Creamy Tomato Soup?
Ever heard of “Creamy Tomato Soup”? Sounds pretty straightforward, right? But have you ever wondered why it’s so darn comforting? Is it the velvety smooth texture? The bright, tangy flavour of the tomatoes mellowed by luscious cream? Or maybe it’s simply the nostalgia.
I mean, who didn’t grow up dipping grilled cheese sandwiches into a bowl of homemade tomato soup? Did a genius chef suddenly decided he loved tomatoes and that they should be creamy? I don’t know But the fact is ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.’ and this may just be the way to everyone’s heart! Whatever the reason, Creamy Tomato Soup is a timeless classic for a reason. So, go on, grab a can of tomatoes and give this recipe a try – you might just find yourself falling in love with soup all over again!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Soup:
This Creamy Tomato Soup recipe is a guaranteed winner for several reasons. Firstly, the creamy texture is exceptionally comforting and satisfying, making it the perfect choice for a chilly evening. Secondly, using canned tomatoes significantly reduces costs compared to fresh alternatives, making it an affordable and tasty family meal.
Finally, the addition of fresh basil and a swirl of cream adds a layer of luxury and flavour that elevates this simple soup to gourmet status. If you enjoy the creamy texture, you can also explore a creamy tomato pasta sauce for an equally satisfying meal. Why not try making this Creamy Tomato Soup tonight and experience the flavours for yourself?
Key Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Soup:
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious Creamy Tomato Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How to Make Creamy Tomato Soup:
This Creamy Tomato Soup is incredibly easy to make, and the result is a deeply flavourful and comforting soup. The key is to let the tomatoes simmer and develop their sweetness while the broth infuses all the flavors beautifully. This recipe takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The creamy texture and aromatic herbs will undoubtedly make it a family favourite.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together. For a richer flavour, simmer longer, up to an hour.
Blend (Optional): For an ultra-smooth soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids!
Stir in Cream: Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) until well combined. Heat gently for a minute or two, but do not boil.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot with grilled cheese, crusty bread, or crackers.
What to Serve Creamy Tomato Soup With
Creamy Tomato Soup is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that never gets old.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
- Caprese Salad: The fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil complement the soup beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: Adds a delicious garlicky crunch.
- Side Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Tomato Soup:
- Use High-Quality Canned Tomatoes: Opt for canned tomatoes that are labeled “crushed” or “diced in juice” for the best flavour.
- Don’t Skip the Simmering Time: Allowing the soup to simmer for at least 20 minutes helps to meld the flavours together and create a richer, more complex taste.
- Adjust the Cream to Your Preference: If you prefer a lighter soup, use less cream or substitute with milk or half-and-half.
- Roast the Tomatoes: Roasting your canned tomatoes prior to making the soup, will bring out tons of natural sweetness and delicious, caramelized flavors to the soup! Just dump your canned tomatoes on a sheet and splash with olive oil, salt and pepper, then spread them out into a single layer and roast them at 400 degrees for 30 minutes.
- Add a Splash of Balsamic Vinegar: A small splash of balsamic vinegar at the end can add a wonderful layer of acidity and brighten up the flavour of the soup.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
- Storing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
- Freezing: Creamy Tomato Soup can also be frozen for longer storage. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Final Thoughts:
Canned tomatoes are a pantry powerhouse. Keep cooking, keep exploring, and most importantly, keep enjoying the simplicity and deliciousness that canned tomato recipes can bring to your table!
FAQs
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
- Yes, but you’ll need to peel and seed them first. Use about 3 pounds of fresh tomatoes for every 28-ounce can. You may also need to adjust the cooking time to allow the fresh tomatoes to break down and soften.
- Can I make this soup vegan?
- Absolutely! Simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or another plant-based cream alternative.
- Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
- Definitely! Roasted red peppers, carrots, or celery would be delicious additions. You can roast them alongside the tomatoes for added flavour.
- Can I use different herbs?
- Of course! Thyme, rosemary, or even a bay leaf can add a unique flavour to your soup. Just remember to remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Is canned tomato safe?
- Yes, Canned tomatoes are perfectly safe to eat and are a valuable and budget-friendly source of nutrients and antioxidants.
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