Sunday Slow Simmered Tomato Soup

Name: Sunday Slow Simmered Tomato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 pounds fresh tomatoes, diced; 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore cozy Sunday afternoons when I can take my time to prepare a rich and hearty tomato soup. This Sunday Slow Simmered Tomato Soup is my go-to recipe for those moments of indulgence. The slow simmering process enhances the flavors of the tomatoes and herbs, creating a blissful dish that warms both the heart and the soul. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make! I love serving it with a hunk of crusty bread to soak up every last drop, making it perfect for a family gathering or a delightful solo lunch.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:46:21.971Z

When I first tried making tomato soup from scratch, I was surprised at how much better it was than anything from a can. The key lies in letting the tomatoes simmer slowly, building layers of flavor while the aromatics meld beautifully. After some experimentation, I discovered that using both fresh and canned tomatoes provides a richer texture and taste. Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end brightens the soup in a way that is simply delightful.

I often enjoy this soup as a meal on its own, pairing it with a simple side salad or a grilled cheese sandwich. The satisfaction of slow-cooking allows me to embrace the flavors fully, creating a comforting dish that brings everyone to the table. It's versatile too; I love adding an extra kick with red pepper flakes or garnishing it with fresh basil for a gourmet touch.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The deep, robust flavor from slow-simmering tomatoes and herbs
A comforting bowl that's perfect for chilly days
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings and sides

      

The Importance of Slow Simmering

The magic of this tomato soup lies in the slow simmering process, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you simmer the soup for 60 to 90 minutes, the fresh diced tomatoes break down, releasing their natural sugars and acidity. This lengthy cooking time is what transforms the soup from a simple blend of ingredients into a harmonious and rich flavor experience. You'll notice that the liquid thickens slightly as temperatures remain gentle, creating a luscious texture that’s incredibly satisfying.

During this slow simmer, don’t rush the process. Stir occasionally to prevent the tomatoes from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If you find the mixture getting too thick, you can add a touch of water or vegetable broth to adjust the consistency. The aim is to achieve a balance between a hearty soup and a smooth, pourable texture; babying it through this slow-cooking phase will yield a profoundly rewarding result.

Ingredient Insights

Using a mix of fresh diced tomatoes and canned crushed tomatoes enhances the depth of flavor in this dish. Fresh tomatoes provide a bright, vibrant taste that evolves during the cooking process, while the crushed tomatoes add body and familiarity to the soup. If fresh tomatoes are out of season, you can substitute them with additional canned tomatoes; just opt for high-quality products with no added sugars or preservatives for the best results.

Balsamic vinegar plays a crucial role here. Its sweetness and acidity cut through the richness, adding balance to the soup. If you don't have balsamic vinegar on hand, a splash of red wine vinegar or even a squeeze of lemon juice can serve as an adequate substitute, though they might alter the flavor profile slightly. Always taste before serving, as the right acidity is key to elevating the dish.

Ingredients

Gather all the fresh ingredients to create a perfect bowl of tomato goodness.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 pounds fresh tomatoes, diced
1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients, you’re ready to start crafting your delicious tomato soup!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to recreate this soothing tomato soup.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add the Tomatoes

Stir in the fresh diced tomatoes and crushed tomatoes. Add dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Slow Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and allow the soup to simmer uncovered for 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will deepen the flavors.

Finishing Touches

After simmering, stir in the balsamic vinegar for added richness. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve hot. Enjoy with crusty bread or grilled cheese!

Enjoy your hearty and flavorful tomato soup! Don’t forget to share with family or friends.

Pro Tips

For an extra smooth texture, you can blend the soup using an immersion blender after it has cooled slightly.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is an excellent make-ahead option, as it tends to taste even better the day after it's made. If you plan to prepare it in advance, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to thin it out.

For longer storage, this tomato soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags after cooling and it can last for about three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned above. This allows for quick lunches or dinners, making meal prep super convenient while still enjoying the comfort of homemade soup.

Creative Serving Suggestions

While this tomato soup is delightful on its own, don’t hesitate to get creative with your serving ideas. Try topping a bowl with a dollop of crème fraîche for a creamy contrast, or sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a savory finish. Feel free to add croutons or toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch that enhances the texture wonderfully.

Pair your soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich or a hunk of warm, crusty bread for an inviting meal that’s perfect for sharing. You might even consider making a simple pesto to drizzle over the soup for an aromatic twist. Explore different fresh herbs like cilantro or chives to add a unique flair, depending on what you have on hand. Each variation brings new life to this comforting dish and makes it your own.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute with canned tomatoes, but using fresh will provide a more vibrant flavor.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months.

→ What toppings can I add to the soup?

You can add croutons, shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this soup vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan! Just ensure any toppings you use align with your dietary preferences.