Florentine Tomato Soup Recipe

Tomato soup is one of those comforting, soul-warming dishes that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day. And if you haven’t tried a Florentine Tomato Soup, then you’re in for a real treat. This dish takes the classic tomato soup up a notch by introducing rich, earthy flavors from fresh greens and a touch of creaminess. It’s a perfect blend of savory, tangy, and smooth, and it’s easy to prepare, too! The Florentine variation has roots in Florence, Italy, and is heavily inspired by the region’s agricultural richness. Think of it as a simple yet elegant recipe that you could imagine sitting down to in an Italian villa overlooking the Tuscan countryside.

In this post, I’m going to break down everything you need to know about making a fantastic Florentine Tomato Soup: the ingredients, how to cook it, tips from the experts, and even some variations to try! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone looking to impress their family with an unforgettable meal, this soup is sure to please.

A Florentine Tomato Soup is a wonderful fusion of rich tomato base and fresh greens like spinach or kale. It typically incorporates garlic, onions, and a little cream or cheese for a smoother texture. The result is a velvety soup that is both filling and light-a balance of indulgence and health. Here’s a step-by-step recipe to help you craft your own bowl of this comforting soup.

Ingredients Needed

To make this hearty Florentine Tomato Soup, you’ll need a variety of simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:

Tomatoes (fresh or canned) – About 4 cups of ripe, chopped tomatoes, or one 28-ounce can of whole tomatoes.
Fresh spinach (or kale) – 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped (or kale for a more earthy flavor).
Onion – 1 medium onion, finely chopped.
Garlic – 3-4 cloves, minced for that aromatic base.
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons for sautéing.
Vegetable broth (or chicken broth) – 4 cups. This serves as the flavorful liquid base for the soup.
Heavy cream – ½ cup, optional but adds a luscious creaminess to the soup.
Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons, to deepen the tomato flavor.
Sugar – A pinch (optional, depending on the acidity of the tomatoes).
Salt and pepper – To taste.
Fresh basil – A handful of basil leaves for garnish (optional but adds a fresh finish).
Parmesan cheese – Optional, for serving. A sprinkle of freshly grated cheese gives it an extra Italian flair.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Florentine Tomato Soup.

Prepare The Ingredients
- Wash and chop the tomatoes if using fresh ones. If using canned, just drain them and chop.
- Chop the onion, garlic, and spinach (or kale), and measure out the broth.
Cook The Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté them until they’re soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.
Build The Soup Base
- Add the chopped tomatoes (or canned tomatoes), tomato paste, and a pinch of sugar to the pot. Stir to combine, and let it cook for 3-4 minutes. The sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Simmer With Broth
- Pour in the vegetable (or chicken) broth, stir everything together, and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to break down.
Blend The Soup (Optional)
- If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Blend until smooth and return to the pot.
Add Greens
- Once the soup has reached your desired consistency, stir in the fresh spinach (or kale). Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.
Finish With Cream
- For that creamy, rich texture, stir in the heavy cream (optional) and let it heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve And Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve it hot with a side of crusty bread or grilled cheese.

Ingredient Insights

Understanding the ingredients will take your Florentine Tomato Soup to the next level. Here’s a deeper dive into why each one is essential:

Tomatoes: The foundation of this soup. Tomatoes are naturally sweet and tangy, providing the base flavor. When cooked, they release their natural sugars, which is why the soup develops such a depth of flavor.
Spinach or Kale: These greens bring not only color but also nutrients. Spinach is delicate and has a mild flavor, while kale has a more robust, earthy taste, which adds character to the soup.
Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil is key for sautéing the onion and garlic, giving the soup a smooth, slightly fruity undertone.
Garlic: Garlic acts as the aromatic base for the soup. It adds richness and depth that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Cream: Adding cream transforms the soup from a basic tomato broth into something rich and comforting. It smooths out the tangy notes of the tomatoes, creating a luscious texture.

Expert Tips

If you want to elevate your soup-making game and make this Florentine Tomato Soup truly spectacular, here are some expert tips:

Use fresh, ripe tomatoes if possible. They have a natural sweetness that enhances the soup’s overall flavor. If you’re using canned tomatoes, choose a high-quality brand.
Don’t skip the tomato paste. It intensifies the tomato flavor, which is especially important when using canned tomatoes.
Season as you go: Taste your soup throughout the cooking process. Tomatoes can be tangy, so adjust the salt, pepper, and sugar accordingly.
Blend to your preference: Some people like a chunky soup for texture, while others prefer smooth. You can even blend half of the soup and leave the rest for a mix of textures.
Make it ahead: Tomato soup only gets better with time. Make it a day ahead, and the flavors will have had time to deepen.

Recipe Variations

One of the beautiful things about this soup is that you can play around with the ingredients. Here are a few variations you could try:

Roasted Tomato Florentine Soup: Roast the tomatoes before adding them to the soup for a smoky, caramelized flavor. Simply toss the tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
Herb Infusion: Add some Italian herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary during the simmering phase for a more aromatic twist.
Vegan Version: Skip the cream and instead use coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Make sure to use vegetable broth and skip the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with vegan cheese.
Cheesy Tomato Florentine: Add small cubes of mozzarella cheese directly into the soup right before serving. The cheese will melt into the soup, creating a gooey, comforting texture.

Final Words

Florentine Tomato Soup is a crowd-pleaser with a sophisticated twist. It’s hearty enough to be a full meal but light enough to be comforting without feeling overly indulgent. The balance between the tangy tomatoes, tender greens, and creamy finish creates a flavor profile that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

Florentine Tomato Soup Recipe