If you love comforting, soul-warming soups, this Tomato Florentine Soup Recipe will quickly become your favorite bowl of cozy comfort. Imagine a steaming pot of rich tomato broth, tender pasta, and velvety spinach—all coming together in one delicious Italian-inspired dish. This creamy Tomato Florentine Soup captures that perfect balance of hearty and light, making it an irresistible weeknight dinner or a nourishing lunch you’ll keep revisiting.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!There’s something magical about the Italian Tomato Florentine Soup — it’s rustic, elegant, and deeply flavorful. With each spoonful, you’ll taste the freshness of tomatoes, the subtle spice of herbs, and the creaminess that hugs every bite of pasta and spinach.
Why You’ll Love This Tomato Florentine Soup Recipe
Hearty yet healthy: A nourishing balance of tomatoes, spinach, and pasta.
Easy to make: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple pantry staples.
Rich Italian flavor: Basil, oregano, and garlic bring restaurant-quality taste at home.
Customizable: Make it creamy, vegan, or gluten-free effortlessly.
Perfect for meal prep: Stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
Budget-friendly: Every ingredient is affordable and easy to find.
Comforting texture: The cream and spinach add velvety smoothness to each bite.
Family-approved: Even picky eaters love this creamy Tomato Florentine Soup.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make the Homemade Tomato Florentine Soup that tastes straight out of an Italian trattoria.
Base and Aromatics
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps build the flavor base.
1 small yellow onion, diced: Sweetens and deepens the soup’s flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds that essential Italian aroma.
Herbs and Spices
1 teaspoon dried basil – for that signature Italian fragrance.
½ teaspoon dried oregano – enhances depth and savory notes.
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – adds gentle heat.
Salt and black pepper to taste – balance all flavors perfectly.
Vegetables and Liquids
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes – provides a rich, tangy tomato base.
4 cups vegetable broth – the foundation that ties everything together.
1 tablespoon tomato paste – intensifies the tomato flavor.
1 teaspoon sugar – helps balance the acidity of tomatoes.
Pasta and Greens
1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or orzo): Adds texture and substance.
3 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped: The “Florentine” star of the dish.
Dairy (Optional)
½ cup heavy cream or whole milk: Creates a luscious, creamy finish.
Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving): Adds salty, umami richness.
How to Make Tomato Florentine Soup Recipe
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to avoid browning.
2. Add Garlic and Herbs
Add minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant — this step blooms the spices and unlocks flavor depth.
3. Build the Tomato Base
Pour in crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and tomato paste. Add sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer to Develop Flavor
Reduce the heat to low and let the Italian Tomato Florentine Soup simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. This allows the ingredients to meld into a rich, cohesive flavor.
5. Cook the Pasta
Add pasta directly into the simmering soup. Cook 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente. The pasta absorbs the broth, thickening the soup naturally.
6. Add the Spinach
Stir in the chopped baby spinach. Cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted and tender, maintaining its vibrant green color.
7. Add Cream (Optional)
If you prefer a Creamy Tomato Florentine Soup, stir in the heavy cream or milk. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, top with Parmesan cheese, and enjoy warm. Pair with crusty bread for a satisfying Italian-style meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Tomato Florentine Soup
How do you thicken Tomato Florentine Soup naturally?
Allow the soup to simmer uncovered a few extra minutes or mash some of the cooked tomatoes for a thicker texture without extra cream.
Can I make Tomato Florentine Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! It stores beautifully. Make it a day in advance — the flavors deepen overnight. Reheat on the stove and add fresh spinach before serving.
What pasta works best in Tomato Florentine Soup?
Short pastas like ditalini, orzo, or small shells absorb flavor without overpowering the soup’s texture.
Is Tomato Florentine Soup vegetarian?
Yes, and it’s easy to make vegan by omitting cream and Parmesan or substituting them with plant-based alternatives.
Best Ways to Serve Tomato Florentine Soup
Serve this Rustic Italian Tomato Florentine Soup with:
Grilled cheese sandwiches or garlic bread.
Caesar salad or Caprese salad for a light meal.
A sprinkle of chili flakes for extra spice.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: ~280
Protein: 9g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: 680mg
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or cream if thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I add meat to Tomato Florentine Soup?
Yes — cooked Italian sausage, shredded chicken, or ground turkey make it heartier.
Can I use canned spinach?
Fresh or frozen spinach is best for flavor and texture. Avoid canned spinach as it tends to be too soft.
What’s the difference between Tomato Soup and Tomato Florentine Soup?
Tomato Florentine includes spinach (“Florentine” style) and often pasta or cream, giving it more body and nutritional value.
Variations to Try
Vegan Version: Use coconut milk instead of cream and vegan Parmesan.
High-Protein Version: Add white beans or lentils.
Low-Carb Option: Swap pasta for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Spicy Italian Twist: Add extra red pepper flakes or Italian sausage.
Conclusion
This Tomato Florentine Soup Recipe is the definition of Italian comfort — simple, cozy, and full of flavor. With its creamy texture, aromatic herbs, and tender spinach, it’s a dish you’ll crave again and again. Serve it with crusty bread, a glass of wine, and your favorite company for the ultimate comfort meal.