If you’re craving a warm, comforting bowl that feels like a hug from the inside, this Tomato Florentine Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with vibrant flavors from ripe tomatoes, fresh spinach, and tender noodles, this soup combines simplicity and heartiness in every spoonful. It’s quick to make yet full of wholesome ingredients that create a rich, satisfying experience whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or feeding a hungry family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Tomato Florentine Soup Recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role: the olive oil brings a subtle richness, fresh veggies add texture and brightness, while tomato paste and broth create a deep, luscious base that’s anything but ordinary.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a smooth, glossy start that elevates the veggies.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation when sautéed.
- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped: Bring natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 stalk celery, chopped: Offers subtle earthiness and crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses that classic savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant herbal touch to tie flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon salt, to taste: Enhances and balances the tomato base perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, to taste: Adds just the right hint of spice.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor for richness and color.
- 1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes: The heart of the soup providing fullness and texture.
- 32 ounces chicken broth or vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid that brings everything together.
- 1 cup dry macaroni: Provides tender bite and makes the soup more satisfying.
- 2 cups chopped spinach: Adds a fresh, green vibrancy and subtle earthy flavor.
- Suggested Toppings (Optional): Freshly grated parmesan and chopped parsley for extra flair.
How to Make Tomato Florentine Soup Recipe
Step 1: Heat and Sauté the Veggies
Start by warming your pot over medium heat and adding the olive oil. You want the oil shimmering to ensure everything sautés evenly. Toss in your chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Stir frequently as the mixture softens and the aromas start to fill your kitchen—it should take about 5 to 7 minutes to get these veggies perfectly tender.
Step 2: Build Flavors with Seasonings and Tomato Paste
Next, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, mixing everything well. Add the tomato paste and stir for about a minute to let its intense flavor bloom. This is a key step that transforms the base into something truly rich and hearty.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth, Then Boil
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and the broth. Give everything a good stir, scraping the bottom to lift any caramelized bits for extra flavor. Turn up the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a rapid boil. This step melds all those developing flavors together beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
Once boiling, stir in the dry macaroni. Boil for about 8 minutes or until the pasta is just al dente. It’s important not to overcook here, so the noodles maintain a nice bite when you serve the soup.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Finish
Now stir in the chopped spinach and watch it wilt immediately—it adds freshness and a vibrant green color. With that, your soup is done. Remove the pot from heat and get ready to serve.
How to Serve Tomato Florentine Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly grated parmesan cheese adds an irresistible salty creaminess on top, while a sprinkle of chopped parsley brings a pop of color and a mild herbal note. These simple garnishes elevate the humble soup into a delightful presentation sure to impress anyone at the table.
Side Dishes
Crusty bread or warm garlic breadsticks work wonderfully alongside this Tomato Florentine Soup Recipe, perfect for dipping and savoring with each spoonful. A simple green salad also complements the meal, keeping things light and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in small, hollowed-out bread bowls or mini mason jars as a starter for dinner parties. Swirling a dollop of creamy ricotta or a drizzle of basil pesto on top can also make every bite a little more special and unexpected.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a great option for quick lunches or cozy dinners during the week.
Freezing
This Tomato Florentine Soup Recipe freezes nicely too. Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. You can keep it frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup seems thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency. Heat until thoroughly warmed and enjoy as if it’s freshly made.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip any cheese toppings or replace them with plant-based alternatives.
Is there a gluten-free option for the macaroni?
Yes, substitute regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta varieties. Just make sure the cooking time aligns, as some gluten-free pastas cook faster or slower than the traditional kind.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Fresh tomatoes can work if you puree or chop them finely, but canned diced tomatoes provide consistent flavor and texture, which is why they’re preferred in this Tomato Florentine Soup Recipe.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries! Use a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme to replicate the flavor profile. Fresh herbs work too, just adjust quantities to taste.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans for extra nutrients and texture. Just add them with the onions and carrots so they cook evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Tomato Florentine Soup Recipe is more than just a soup—it’s a comforting classic that you can whip up quickly with simple ingredients you likely already have. Its beautiful balance of flavors and textures makes it a favorite in my kitchen, and I truly hope it becomes one of your go-to recipes on chilly days or anytime you want a bowl of something nourishing and delicious. Give it a try and savor every warm, scrumptious spoonful!
Print
Tomato Florentine Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and comforting Tomato Florentine Soup featuring a hearty tomato base combined with fresh vegetables, tender macaroni noodles, and nutrient-rich spinach. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for a cozy meal and can be garnished with parmesan and parsley for added flavor.
Ingredients
For the Tomato Florentine Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 32 ounces chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup dry macaroni
- 2 cups chopped spinach
Suggested Toppings (Optional)
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
- Heat the pot: Place a large pot over medium heat. Once warm, add olive oil and swirl the pan to coat the surface evenly. Heat until the oil is hot and shimmering.
- Sauté vegetables: Add chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the hot oil. Stir to combine and sauté until the vegetables are tender, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add seasonings and tomato paste: Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and tomato paste. Mix well and let the mixture simmer for 1 minute to develop flavor.
- Add liquids: Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir thoroughly, scraping any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot for extra flavor. Increase heat to medium-high and bring the liquid to a boil.
- Cook macaroni: Once the broth is boiling rapidly, add dry macaroni noodles. Stir to combine and boil for about 8 minutes, until the noodles are just al dente.
- Add spinach and finish: Stir chopped spinach into the soup, allowing it to wilt slightly from the residual heat. Remove the pot from heat immediately.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated parmesan and chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free macaroni and ensure the broth used is certified gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
