Settle in for a bowl of pure comfort with this Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!) — a vibrant, smooth blend that brings back all the cozy, nostalgic flavors of your childhood but in a fresh, nutritious way. Lusciously creamy without feeling heavy, this soup lets the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes shine, brightened by aromatic herbs and a swirl of Greek yogurt or light cream. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or carving out a quiet moment for yourself, Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!) is exactly what you crave: easy, wholesome, and honestly irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!) proves just how magical simple ingredients can be when each one is treated with care. Every component has a starring role, from the sweetness of onions to the rich body of tomatoes. With pantry staples and a touch of creativity, you’ll be amazed at just how flavorful and satisfying this soup turns out.
- Olive oil: Offers a mild, fruity richness and helps soften the aromatics for an uplifted flavor base.
- Small onion (diced): Adds underlying sweetness and a subtle depth to balance the tomatoes.
- Garlic (minced): Infuses gentle savoriness and brings a warm aroma that feels immediately comforting.
- Tomato paste: Packs a concentrated punch, boosting color and amplifying those deep tomato notes.
- Crushed tomatoes (one 28 oz can): The heart of the soup — rich, vibrant, and cleverly convenient.
- Low-sodium vegetable broth: Lends body to the soup without overpowering the garden-fresh flavor.
- Sugar (optional): A tiny pinch smooths out any tartness from the tomatoes, making every spoonful perfectly balanced.
- Salt: Essential for drawing out flavors — adjust to your liking.
- Black pepper: Adds gentle heat and depth to round out the flavors.
- Dried basil: Brings an herbal brightness reminiscent of summer gardens.
- Dried oregano: Layers in a touch of earthiness for that classic Italian-American appeal.
- Plain Greek yogurt or light cream: The secret to a creamy finish, but with a lighter touch — Greek yogurt adds tang while still keeping things velvety.
- Fresh basil (optional): For garnish and an extra pop of color and freshness to make each bowl inviting.
How to Make Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!)
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start your Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!) with a generous swirl of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your diced onion and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes, just until it turns soft and slightly golden. The onion forms the flavor backbone, so don’t rush this part! Toss in the minced garlic and tomato paste, stirring until everything smells toasty and fragrant — about one minute. This step lays down a savory, robust base that brings out the very best of your tomatoes.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Simmer
Pour in your crushed tomatoes, followed by the low-sodium vegetable broth. Sprinkle in the sugar (if you’re using it), salt, black pepper, dried basil, and oregano. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. This is when all those lovely flavors mingle and develop into the soul-soothing bowl you crave.
Step 3: Blend for Creaminess
Remove your pot from the heat. Now for the magic: use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blitz everything until gorgeously smooth. If you only have a countertop blender, just work in batches (careful, it’ll be hot!). This step transforms your soup into the silkiest Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!) imaginable with minimal effort.
Step 4: Stir in the Creamy Finish
With your soup blended, swirl in the plain Greek yogurt or light cream. Not only does this lighten up the texture, but it gives the soup that irresistible richness you love — without the guilt. Warm gently if needed, but don’t let it boil, to keep it perfectly smooth.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle your Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!) into bowls while it’s piping hot. Top each serving with a sprinkle of fresh basil for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Now, you’re ready to dig in!
How to Serve Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!)
Garnishes
The finishing touches go a long way to making your Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!) feel extra special. Chopped fresh basil is always a classic, adding a fragrant pop of green. You can also try a swirl of extra Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of black pepper, or even some toasted seeds for crunch.
Side Dishes
Truly, what’s tomato soup without the perfect companion? Grilled cheese is the ultimate pairing — crispy, melty, and wonderful for dunking. For a lighter touch, serve with a handful of croutons or a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette. A slice of rustic bread, warm from the oven, also makes every bowl of Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!) irresistible.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress or just make things fun, pour the soup into small mugs for a party appetizer, or serve shooters at brunch. For weeknight coziness, try topping each bowl with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of good olive oil. It’s simple, but it transforms Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!) into a restaurant-worthy treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavor continues to develop, so it’s just as delicious (if not better) the next day. Perfect for meal prep or busy days when you just need a nourishing pick-me-up.
Freezing
To freeze Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!), let it cool fully and ladle it into freezer bags or containers, leaving room for expansion. It keeps beautifully for up to three months. If you know you’ll be freezing, add the Greek yogurt or cream only after thawing and reheating, to keep the texture silky smooth.
Reheating
Gently reheat your soup over medium-low on the stove, stirring occasionally. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stove. If it thickens too much, just add a splash of broth or water until it’s your ideal consistency. Soup’s on!
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh, ripe tomatoes (about 2.5 to 3 pounds, chopped) work wonderfully. For the richest flavor, consider roasting them first, then proceed with the recipe. The soup may be a little lighter and brighter — perfect for peak summer produce.
Is Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!) gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so long as you double-check that your broth and any garnishes are certified gluten-free, especially when serving people with sensitivities.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt or don’t have any on hand, try light cream, half-and-half, or even a dairy-free coconut or cashew cream for a vegan version. The creaminess is totally customizable!
How can I make the soup even thicker and creamier?
For extra body, add a peeled, diced potato or a small handful of cooked white beans with the tomatoes and let them simmer. They’ll blend seamlessly and give the soup a luxurious texture while still feeling light.
Does this Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!) work as a make-ahead meal?
It’s actually even better after a night in the fridge! Make a big pot, let it cool, and store so you’ve got a quick, nourishing meal ready to go all week. It reheats like a dream, making it the perfect solution for busy schedules.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about sharing a pot of Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!) — it’s nostalgic yet new, light but deeply satisfying, and so simple to make your own. Whether you pair it with a grilled cheese, serve it to company, or spoon it straight from the pot after a long day, this recipe will become the one you reach for again and again. Give it a try and let Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!) bring a little extra warmth to your table tonight!
Print
Classic Tomato Soup (Lightened Up!) Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A lightened-up version of the classic tomato soup that is both healthy and creamy. This homemade soup is a perfect comfort food option for any day, especially when paired with a grilled cheese sandwich.
Ingredients
Base Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Finishing Touches:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or light cream
- Chopped fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Base Soup: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cook until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, broth, sugar, salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Blend and Finish: Remove from heat and blend the soup until smooth. Stir in Greek yogurt or light cream for creaminess. Reheat gently if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
- For extra flavor, roast the tomatoes and onions before blending.
- Pairs perfectly with a grilled cheese sandwich.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
