If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and totally nourishing, you’re going to absolutely love this Creamy Vegan Tomato Soup Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that’s incredibly simple yet feels so indulgent—plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes! When I first tried this, I was amazed at how creamy and satisfying it is without a single drop of dairy. And the best part? It has a secret protein boost that makes it both hearty and healthy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy Texture: Thanks to white beans, it’s wonderfully smooth without any dairy.
- Quick & Easy: From chopping to serving in about 30 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: Herbs, spices, and roasted tomato goodness come together beautifully.
- Nutritious & Filling: Protein-packed and fiber-rich, it keeps you satisfied and energized.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Vegan Tomato Soup Recipe uses pantry staples combined with fresh herbs to make the flavor pop. You don’t need anything fancy, but choosing good-quality canned tomatoes and fresh basil really elevates the soup to another level.
- Whole peeled tomatoes: Look for a good brand with plum tomatoes for balanced sweetness and acidity.
- Diced tomatoes: These add texture and body to the soup.
- Tomato paste: Adds depth and intensifies the tomato flavor; don’t skip it!
- Yellow onion: A classic base that brings natural sweetness when sautéed.
- Minced garlic: Garlic is a must for that savory, comforting vibe.
- Olive oil: Use a good extra virgin for sautéing—it adds a subtle fruitiness.
- Cooked small white beans (cannellini): The secret ingredient for creaminess and protein.
- Non-dairy milk: I usually use unsweetened almond or oat milk for creaminess without overpowering flavor.
- Dried oregano: A lovely herb that pairs beautifully with tomato.
- Fresh chopped basil (or dried): Nothing beats fresh basil stirred in at the end for that bright, aromatic lift.
- Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- Red pepper flakes: Adds a hint of heat—adjust to your liking.
- Paprika: Gives a gentle smoky nuance that’s just right.
- Black pepper: Freshly ground if possible, for the best flavor.
Variations
One of my favorite things about this Creamy Vegan Tomato Soup Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. You can tweak spices or switch up herbs—making it your go-to cozy meal no matter the season.
- Spice it up: I sometimes add a dash of smoked chipotle powder for a smoky kick that my family adores.
- Herbal twist: Instead of basil, try fresh thyme or rosemary for a different herbal note that’ll surprise you.
- Make it heartier: Add cooked lentils or quinoa in the blending step to boost texture and protein even more.
- Use coconut milk: For a tropical creamy flavor, swap non-dairy milk with canned coconut milk—especially great in colder months.
How to Make Creamy Vegan Tomato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Your Flavor Base
Start by warming your olive oil in a medium pot. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking gently over medium heat. You want the onions translucent and soft, usually around 5 minutes. This step is key because it builds the foundational sweetness and aroma that your soup will thank you for. Be patient and keep the heat moderate—burnt garlic can ruin the flavor.
Step 2: Boost with Tomato Paste & Spices
Next, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. This concentrates the tomatoes’ flavor. Then add your dried oregano, red pepper flakes, paprika, salt, a good crack of black pepper, and chopped basil. Mix everything well and sauté for another 2 minutes to awaken those spices.
Step 3: Simmer the Tomatoes & Milk
Pour in both cans of tomatoes along with your chosen non-dairy milk. Give it a good stir, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on low heat. Let it cook uncovered for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors. Keeping the heat low lets the soup thicken up slowly and avoids that harsh cooked tomato taste.
Step 4: Blend It to Creamy Perfection
Transfer your hot soup to the blender—adding the cooked white beans now is what brings in that luxurious creaminess. I always start blending on the lowest speed and keep the lid slightly ajar to let steam escape safely. Blend until completely smooth with no lumps left behind. It’s instantly rich and velvety, the kind of creamy texture you’d expect from a dairy version.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Pour into your favorite bowl, garnish with fresh basil if you have it, and dive in while it’s warm. You’ll find this soup so comforting, whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner.
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Vegan Tomato Soup Recipe
- Use Quality Canned Tomatoes: I’ve learned that flavorful, well-packed tomatoes make all the difference, so don’t opt for the cheapest brand.
- Don’t Skip the Tomato Paste: It adds a lovely umami punch and richness that takes this soup from good to amazing.
- Blend Beans Last: Adding cooked beans is my trick for creamy texture—it’s the magic ingredient I discovered after a few tries!
- Avoid Boiling After Adding Milk: Keep the heat low to prevent curdling and maintain silky smoothness.
How to Serve Creamy Vegan Tomato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
I love finishing this soup with fresh basil leaves because they add a burst of color and a fresh, herbal aroma that complements the rich tomato. Sometimes I sprinkle a little nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy hint or drizzle high-quality olive oil for extra silkiness. Roasted pumpkin seeds or toasted pine nuts add a fun crunch if you feel fancy.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or a warm, crusty sourdough bread. I also love dipping grilled vegan cheese sandwiches or garlic breadsticks alongside it—makes the meal feel extra cozy. For a heartier option, add a side of roasted veggies or a simple quinoa pilaf to round things out.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I’ve poured this soup into mini bread bowls—your guests will be impressed by the presentation and the edible container. Another idea is layering the soup in clear cups and topping with vegan crème fraîche and fresh herbs for a pretty, elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I usually let it cool completely before refrigerating to keep it fresh. Give it a good stir before reheating, as it can thicken up in the fridge.
Freezing
I often freeze batches of this soup in individual portions—perfect for when I want a quick warm-up meal. Be sure to leave some headspace in your container as the soup expands when frozen. It freezes and thaws very well without losing that amazing creamy texture.
Reheating
When reheating, I prefer warming it gently on the stove over medium-low heat with a splash of almond milk to loosen it up if needed. Using the microwave is fine too—just stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for this Creamy Vegan Tomato Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! You’ll just want about 3-4 cups of ripe fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may be less sweet and more watery than canned, so you might need to simmer longer to thicken your soup and consider adding a bit more tomato paste to boost flavor.
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What can I use if I don’t have white beans?
Great question! Cannellini beans are perfect for creaminess, but you can swap with other mild white beans like navy or great northern beans. If you want a nutty twist, cooked cashews blended in the soup is also a fantastic creamy alternative.
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Is this soup spicy?
It has a gentle kick from the red pepper flakes and paprika, but it’s never overpowering. You can easily adjust the level of heat up or down depending on your preference.
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Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can sauté the garlic and onion first, then transfer everything except the non-dairy milk and beans to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, add milk and beans, then blend until smooth right before serving.
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How do I make this soup creamy without coconut milk?
The cooked white beans are the secret to creamy texture without any coconut milk or other dairy substitutes. They blend smoothly and add a silky mouthfeel while keeping it light.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Vegan Tomato Soup Recipe has become such a comforting staple in my kitchen, especially on chilly days when I crave something warm and wholesome. It’s simple, made entirely from ingredients you probably already have, and super forgiving for all skill levels. I really hope you give it a try and enjoy the way it fills your home with that cozy, delicious vibe. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again—friends and family are always amazed by its richness and flavor, and I just know you’ll love it too!
PrintCreamy Vegan Tomato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This creamy vegan tomato soup combines whole and diced tomatoes with cannellini beans, fresh herbs, and spices for a comforting, protein-rich, and dairy-free meal. Perfect for warming up on cold days, this soup is easy to prepare in under 30 minutes and boasts a smooth texture with vibrant tomato flavors and aromatic basil and oregano.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil (or 2 teaspoons dried)
Tomato Ingredients
- 1 28 ounce can whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 15 ounce can diced tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
Legumes & Dairy Alternatives
- 1 cup cooked small white beans (cannellini), drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup non-dairy milk
Oils & Spices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to a pot with the olive oil. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and continue sautéing for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to deepen the flavor and slightly caramelize the paste.
- Season: Add the dried oregano, red pepper flakes, paprika, salt, black pepper, and fresh or dried chopped basil to the pot. Sauté for 2 more minutes to toast the spices and infuse aromas.
- Add Tomatoes and Milk: Pour in both cans of tomatoes (whole peeled and diced) along with the non-dairy milk. Stir everything well to combine the flavors.
- Simmer: Lower the heat and let the soup simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
- Blend Until Smooth: Transfer the soup mixture into a blender along with the drained and rinsed white beans. Start blending at the lowest speed, keeping the blender lid slightly ajar to let steam escape, and process until the soup is completely smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Pour the creamy tomato soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and enjoy while warm.
Notes
- This vegan tomato soup is wonderfully creamy without any dairy, thanks to the addition of white beans and non-dairy milk.
- The beans not only contribute creaminess but also add a nutritious protein boost to the soup, making it more filling.
- Use fresh basil for more vibrant flavor, but dried basil works well too if fresh is unavailable.
- For extra spice, adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred heat level.
- This soup is perfect for a quick, comforting meal during chilly weather, ready in under 30 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 146 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3.3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg