Zesty Tomato Soup for One: A Flavorful & Easy Recipe

Craving a comforting and flavorful bowl of tomato soup but only need a serving for yourself? This zesty tomato soup recipe is perfect for one! It’s quick, easy, and packed with bright, delicious flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. Forget the canned stuff – this homemade version is so much better and healthier, allowing you to control the ingredients and spice level. This recipe is designed to be easily customizable, so feel free to adjust the herbs, spices, and toppings to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a cozy dinner, or a simple way to use up some fresh tomatoes, this zesty tomato soup will become your new go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Perfect for One:** No more leftovers or wasted ingredients. This recipe is specifically portioned for a single serving.
* **Quick and Easy:** Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
* **Flavorful and Zesty:** A blend of herbs, spices, and a touch of citrus creates a vibrant and satisfying flavor profile.
* **Healthy and Customizable:** Use fresh, wholesome ingredients and adjust the recipe to suit your dietary needs and preferences. It’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan.
* **Uses Pantry Staples:** Most of the ingredients are likely already in your pantry or refrigerator.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious zesty tomato soup for one:

* **1 tablespoon olive oil:** Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
* **1/4 cup chopped onion:** Provides a savory base for the soup.
* **1 clove garlic, minced:** Adds a pungent and aromatic flavor.
* **1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained:** The star of the show! You can also use about 1 1/2 cups of fresh diced tomatoes.
* **1/2 cup vegetable broth:** Adds liquid and depth of flavor. Chicken broth can be substituted if you’re not vegan.
* **1 tablespoon tomato paste:** Enhances the tomato flavor and adds richness.
* **1/2 teaspoon dried oregano:** Adds a classic Italian herb flavor.
* **1/4 teaspoon dried basil:** Complements the oregano and adds a touch of sweetness.
* **1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional):** For a touch of heat. Adjust to your preference.
* **1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional):** Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
* **Salt and pepper to taste:** Essential for seasoning.
* **1 teaspoon lemon juice:** Adds a zesty brightness to the soup.
* **Optional toppings:** Fresh basil, croutons, grated Parmesan cheese (if not vegan), a swirl of cream or coconut milk, a dollop of Greek yogurt or vegan sour cream.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your own zesty tomato soup for one:

**Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics**

* Heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

**Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Broth**

* Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained) or fresh diced tomatoes.
* Stir in the vegetable broth and tomato paste.

**Step 3: Season and Simmer**

* Add the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar (if using), salt, and pepper.
* Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan.
* Simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.

**Step 4: Blend the Soup (Optional)**

* For a smoother soup, carefully transfer the soup to a blender or use an immersion blender to blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids, as they can splatter. If using a regular blender, remove the center piece of the lid and cover with a towel to allow steam to escape.

**Step 5: Add the Zest and Serve**

* Stir in the lemon juice.
* Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your liking.
* Pour the soup into a bowl and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as fresh basil, croutons, Parmesan cheese, or a swirl of cream.
* Serve immediately and enjoy!

## Tips and Variations

* **Use Roasted Tomatoes:** For an even deeper, richer flavor, roast the tomatoes before adding them to the soup. Simply toss the tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
* **Add Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, or zucchini. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
* **Spice it Up:** If you like spicy food, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
* **Make it Creamy:** For a creamier soup, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream, coconut milk, or Greek yogurt after blending. You can also use a dairy-free cream alternative.
* **Add Protein:** To make the soup more filling, add some cooked chickpeas, lentils, or white beans. You can also add a poached egg or some grilled chicken.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or marjoram.
* **Add a Touch of Balsamic Glaze:** A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
* **Make it Vegan:** This recipe is easily made vegan by using vegetable broth and plant-based toppings.
* **Add a swirl of pesto:** Adds fresh herbaciousness to the soup.

## Serving Suggestions

This zesty tomato soup is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with:

* **Grilled cheese sandwich:** A classic combination!
* **Crusty bread:** For dipping into the soup.
* **Salad:** A light and refreshing side dish.
* **Crackers:** For a simple and satisfying snack.

## Make Ahead and Storage Instructions

* **Make Ahead:** You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
* **Storage:** Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Freezing:** The soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The texture may change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be delicious.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per serving, without toppings)

* Calories: Approximately 200-250
* Protein: 5-7 grams
* Fat: 10-15 grams
* Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
* Fiber: 5-7 grams

*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?**
A: Yes, you can definitely use fresh tomatoes! You’ll need about 1 1/2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes. Roasting them beforehand will enhance the flavor.

**Q: Can I make this soup vegan?**
A: Absolutely! This recipe is easily made vegan by using vegetable broth and plant-based toppings. Skip the Parmesan cheese and use a plant-based cream alternative.

**Q: Can I add other vegetables to this soup?**
A: Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or zucchini. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.

**Q: How do I make this soup spicier?**
A: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup.

**Q: Can I use a different type of broth?**
A: Yes, you can use chicken broth if you’re not vegan. You can also use bone broth for added nutrients.

**Q: What are some good toppings for this soup?**
A: Some popular toppings include fresh basil, croutons, Parmesan cheese, a swirl of cream, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

**Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?**
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Sauté the onion and garlic as directed, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients (except the lemon juice and toppings). Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the lemon juice before serving.

**Q: Can I use a different type of acid instead of lemon juice?**
A: Lime juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar can be used instead of lemon juice to add a touch of acidity.

**Q: Is it necessary to blend the soup?**
A: No, blending the soup is optional. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step.

**Q: Can I use a different type of onion?**
A: Yellow or white onions are best for this recipe, but you can also use a shallot if you prefer a milder flavor.

## Conclusion

This zesty tomato soup for one is a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal that you can enjoy any time of day. With its bright flavors, customizable ingredients, and quick preparation time, it’s sure to become a new favorite. So, ditch the canned soup and whip up a batch of this homemade goodness – your taste buds will thank you!