Carrot Tomato Soup is a rich and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of carrots with the tanginess of ripe tomatoes. This comforting soup is perfect for cold days or as a light, healthy lunch. The natural sweetness of the carrots balances out the acidity of the tomatoes, and the addition of herbs and spices creates a well-rounded and delicious flavor profile. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a slice of crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Carrot Tomato Soup is smooth, velvety, and full of rich flavors. The carrots add a mild sweetness that complements the tartness of the tomatoes perfectly. It’s also a nutrient-packed option, with both vegetables being high in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. The simplicity of the ingredients and the quick cooking time make this a great go-to recipe when you want something warm, healthy, and satisfying. Plus, it’s vegan, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences!

Carrot Tomato Soup Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons olive oil (or any cooking oil)
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
4 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave syrup (optional, for sweetness)
1/4 cup coconut milk or heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Cook the carrots: Add the chopped carrots to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help bring out the natural sweetness of the carrots.
Add the tomatoes and broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and vegetable broth. Stir in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
Blend the soup: Once the carrots are cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
Optional sweetness and creaminess: Taste the soup and, if you prefer a sweeter flavor, add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or agave syrup. If you’d like a creamier texture, stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve warm with a side of crusty bread or crackers.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add Spices: Add a pinch of cumin, smoked paprika, or chili flakes for a more complex flavor profile or a touch of heat.
Roasted Carrots: For extra flavor, roast the carrots in the oven before adding them to the soup. This brings out a deeper sweetness.
Tomato Basil Soup: Add fresh basil leaves at the end of cooking for a more aromatic, herbal version of the soup.
Vegan Creamy Version: If you’re vegan, you can add a splash of cashew cream or any plant-based cream alternative instead of coconut milk or dairy cream.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This soup freezes well! Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a little water or broth to loosen it up after freezing.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?

Yes! Canned tomatoes work perfectly for this soup and are often used for convenience. If you use canned tomatoes, choose ones with no added sugar or preservatives for a cleaner flavor.

2. Can I make this soup spicy?

Yes! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a small diced jalapeño to the soup to give it a spicy kick.

3. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables such as celery, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients. Just add them with the carrots and sauté them as directed.

4. Can I use a different type of milk instead of coconut milk?

Yes, you can substitute coconut milk with any other milk, such as almond milk, oat milk, or regular dairy milk. Keep in mind that coconut milk adds a subtle flavor, so using a different type of milk may slightly change the taste.

5. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors tend to deepen as it sits. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

6. Can I make this soup without blending it?

Yes! If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip the blending step and enjoy the soup as-is. You can even use an immersion blender to blend just part of the soup for a mix of smooth and chunky textures.

7. How do I make this soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more carrots or a small amount of potato to the mix. Additionally, you can simmer the soup longer to reduce the liquid.

8. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Add all of the ingredients (except the coconut milk or cream) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Once the vegetables are tender, blend the soup and stir in the cream or coconut milk.

9. Can I add protein to this soup?

Yes, you can add protein such as cooked chicken, beans, or lentils to make the soup more filling and hearty.

10. How can I make the soup sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add more maple syrup, agave, or a bit of brown sugar to the soup to taste. The natural sweetness of the carrots will also shine through, so adjust the sweetness as needed.

Conclusion

Carrot Tomato Soup is a comforting, flavorful, and nutritious dish that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With the natural sweetness of the carrots and the tangy freshness of the tomatoes, this soup is perfect for any season, but especially during colder months when you crave something warm and cozy. You can customize it with extra spices or toppings to suit your taste, making it a versatile and delicious addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy!