Tuna and Tomato Soup

Tuna and Tomato Soup is a quick and flavorful dish inspired by Italian cuisine. Combining tender canned tuna with ripe tomatoes, aromatic vegetables, and herbs, it is the perfect solution for a satisfying and healthy meal prepared in minutes.

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This soup balances the savory depth of tuna with the bright acidity of tomatoes. Infused with oregano and basil, it offers a comforting Mediterranean profile that feels both light and hearty.

Ingredients

• 1 can (5 oz / 140 g) tuna in olive oil, drained and flaked
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
• Crusty bread (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes, until softened.

Step 2

Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring.

Step 4

Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine.

Step 5

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

Step 6

Add the flaked tuna and simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 8

Ladle into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley or basil, and serve with crusty bread if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To build a deeper flavor, ensure the tomato paste is sautéed for a full minute before adding the broth. This removes the raw metallic taste and caramelizes the sugars. Additionally, flaking the tuna into larger chunks ensures it maintains a pleasant texture in the soup.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can substitute chicken broth for vegetable broth if preferred. For a heartier version, add small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo during the simmering stage, adjusting the liquid as needed. Increase the crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier kick.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this soup hot with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the savory broth. For extra richness and a bright finish, stir in a spoonful of capers or a splash of fresh lemon juice just before serving.

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Enjoy this simple yet elegant Tuna and Tomato Soup as a nutritious lunch or a light dinner. It is a testament to how high-quality pantry staples can be transformed into a gourmet Italian-inspired meal with very little effort.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tuna. Sear it separately and flake it into the soup at the end. Canned tuna provides convenience and the olive oil adds extra flavor.

→ How can I make this soup heartier?

Add small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo during the simmering step. You can also increase the amount of vegetables or add white beans for extra protein and fiber.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Cool completely before freezing in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.

→ What can I substitute for vegetable broth?

Chicken broth or fish stock work well as substitutes. For a richer flavor, use homemade stock. You can also use water with additional seasoning, though the flavor will be milder.

→ How do I enhance the flavor further?

Add capers, olives, or a splash of lemon juice before serving. A drizzle of quality olive oil and freshly grated Parmesan (if not keeping dairy-free) also elevate the taste significantly.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently before serving.