Tomato Soup fans, this Provençal version offers a light but deeply flavored twist. Infused with herbs de Provence, a splash of white wine, and finished with olive oil, this soup feels elegant yet comforting—ideal for fall dinners or a healthy lunch. It’s a wonderful addition to Fall Soup Recipes, Italian Soup alternatives, or Soup Ideas when you want something lighter but still rich in flavor.
Ingredients
- 6–8 ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional, or use additional broth)
- 2 cups vegetable broth or light stock
- 1 tsp dried herbs de Provence (or mix of thyme, rosemary, oregano, lavender)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or basil for garnish
- Optional: a splash more olive oil at the end
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent (~5 minutes).
- Add garlic, cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in herbs de Provence and toast briefly.
- Add chopped tomatoes and white wine (if using). Let wine reduce slightly (~2 minutes).
- Pour in broth, bring to a simmer. Cover and cook ~15–20 minutes until tomatoes are soft.
- Using an immersion blender (or in batches in a blender), puree until smooth.
- Return to heat, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme or basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Health Benefits
- Tomato nutrition: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene.
- Light but flavorful: No heavy creams—olive oil adds richness without heaviness.
- Herbal support: Herbs de Provence (thyme, rosemary, oregano) add aromatic benefits and may support digestion.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic-toasted baguette.
- Serve alongside a light salad or Roasted Tomato Basil Soup twist by adding basil at the finish.
- Garnish with croutons, fresh herbs, or a swirl of extra virgin olive oil.
Tips & Variations
- For a deeper flavor, roast the tomatoes and garlic first before simmering.
- Skip the wine if you prefer alcohol-free — just replace with extra broth.
- For more body, add a few roasted vegetables like carrot or red pepper before blending.
- To make Tomato Vegetable Soup style, add diced vegetables (zucchini, bell pepper) before simmering.
Conclusion
This French Provençal Tomato Soup brings together elegance and comfort in one bowl. It’s perfect for your fall menu rotation, fits in with Fall Soups and Stews, Healthy Soup Recipes, or anytime you want a lighter but flavorful Soup Idea. Bookmark this recipe and enjoy the aroma and taste whenever you need a comforting, refined tomato soup.
