Nothing beats a warm bowl of fresh, vibrant vegan tomato soup made from scratch with garden-fresh tomatoes. This comforting classic is perfect for any season, especially when tomatoes are in their prime.
Unlike canned soups that often contain preservatives and added sodium, this recipe celebrates the natural sweetness and acidity of ripe tomatoes, enhanced with aromatic herbs and spices. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly day or looking for a light yet satisfying meal, this soup is a nutritious and delicious choice that will please vegans and non-vegans alike.
In this post, I’ll guide you through a simple yet flavorful recipe that uses only whole, plant-based ingredients. Plus, I’ll share tips for making it your own, highlight the nutritional benefits, and offer great serving ideas.
Ready to make the best tomato soup of your life? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan tomato soup recipe is a standout for many reasons. First, it uses fresh tomatoes, which provide a depth of flavor that canned alternatives simply can’t match.
You get the bright, juicy essence of tomatoes balanced with just the right amount of garlic, onion, and herbs.
It’s also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep and common kitchen ingredients. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a healthy option for a wide range of dietary preferences.
The soup is smooth, creamy, and comforting without any dairy or heavy cream.
Finally, it’s versatile! You can serve it as a starter, a light lunch, or pair it with your favorite bread or salad.
This recipe also reheats beautifully, so it’s perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped (about 6 medium)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup full-fat coconut milk or any unsweetened plant milk (optional for creaminess)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Blender or immersion blender
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Serving bowls
Instructions
- Prepare the tomatoes: Wash the fresh tomatoes and chop them roughly. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can peel the tomatoes by scoring an “X” at the bottom, blanching in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transferring to ice water to easily remove skins.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, oregano, and sugar (if using). Stir well to combine and let the mixture cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and become saucy.
- Pour in vegetable broth: Add the vegetable broth to the pot, stir, and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to reduce slightly.
- Blend the soup: Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree until smooth. Be cautious with hot liquids.
- Add creaminess: Return the blended soup to low heat and stir in the coconut milk or plant milk if using. Heat through but do not boil. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy immediately with your favorite vegan bread or salad.
Tips & Variations
“For a richer flavor, roast the tomatoes and garlic before adding them to the pot. Simply halve the tomatoes, place on a baking sheet with garlic cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.”
– Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
– Herb swaps: Try fresh thyme or rosemary instead of basil and oregano for a different aromatic profile.
– Make it chunkier: Blend only half the soup for a mix of smooth and textured tomato chunks.
– Use canned tomatoes: If fresh tomatoes aren’t in season, use a 28 oz can of whole peeled tomatoes, draining some liquid to maintain consistency.
– Nut cream substitute: For an ultra creamy soup, blend soaked cashews with water and stir in instead of coconut milk.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 110 kcal |
Fat | 6 g |
Saturated Fat | 4 g (from coconut milk) |
Carbohydrates | 14 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sugar | 8 g (natural sugars from tomatoes) |
Protein | 2 g |
Vitamin C | 25% of Daily Value |
Vitamin A | 15% of Daily Value |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan tomato soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. For a cozy meal, serve it alongside a grilled vegan cheese sandwich or crusty sourdough bread.
You can also add a fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette for a light, balanced lunch.
For a heartier option, try topping the soup with roasted chickpeas or toasted pumpkin seeds to add crunch and protein. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or balsamic glaze on top adds a gourmet touch.
If you want to explore more vegan meal ideas, check out these recipes:
- Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes
- Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves
- Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious
Conclusion
This vegan tomato soup made from fresh tomatoes is a delicious, nutritious, and versatile recipe that belongs in every home cook’s repertoire. It celebrates the natural flavor of ripe tomatoes while offering comforting warmth in every spoonful.
The simple ingredients come together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a relaxing weekend lunch.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this soup is sure to satisfy. Its creamy texture and vibrant flavor prove that vegan cooking can be both healthy and indulgent.
Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and pair it with your favorite sides to create your perfect meal.
For more inspiring vegan recipes to complement your cooking journey, explore our collection on GluttonLV. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes
Description: A creamy and comforting vegan tomato soup made from fresh, ripe tomatoes. Perfect for a healthy and flavorful meal any time of the year.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 6 large fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, and oregano; cook for 10 minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender.
- Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 18 g
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