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Healthier Soup Series: Tomato Bisque
December 16, 2025
There’s something about tomato bisque that just feels comforting, especially when a grilled cheese is involved. But all that cream and butter can turn a light tomato base into something far heavier than you bargained for.
“Tomato bisque is one of those foods that can be as healthy or as indulgent as you make it,” says Ulysses Wu, MD, chief epidemiologist at Hartford HealthCare. “With a few changes, you can highlight the nutrition of tomatoes instead of covering it up with cream.”
Here’s how to do it.
1. Cut back on the cream
Cream gives bisque its silky texture, but also most of its saturated fat.
“Swap heavy cream for 2% milk, plant-based milk or even evaporated skim milk,” Dr. Wu says. “You can also blend in pureed white beans or cauliflower to thicken it naturally.
But be careful – some plant-based milks have extra sweetener. Instead, you can always substitute plain Greek yogurt or pureed white beans.
> Related: 7 Easy Swaps to Make Any Soup a Little Healthier
2. Add herbs and spices for flavor
A lot of recipes rely on cream and butter for richness, but tomatoes don’t need much help.
“Basil, oregano, thyme and garlic can bring out the natural sweetness and depth of the tomatoes,” says Dr. Wu. “You can get a great flavor profile without adding extra fat or salt.”
The right blend of herbs and spices can transform your soup from heavy and salty to light and flavorful — no heavy cream required.
3. Use fresh or low-sodium tomatoes
Tomatoes are the star of the show, so the type you use matters.
Canned tomatoes are convenient and perfectly healthy, but many varieties are high in sodium. To keep salt in check, look for low-sodium or no-salt-added options. Fresh tomatoes are also a great choice when they’re in season and flavorful.
“Choose low-sodium canned options, or use fresh tomatoes when they’re in season,” Dr. Wu recommends. “That way, you get all the antioxidant benefits of lycopene without the sodium overload.”
> Related: Healthier Soup Series: French Onion
4. Lighten up the garnish
Heavy cream swirls, extra cheese, buttery croutons — toppings can add up fast.
“Try a drizzle of olive oil, a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs instead,” Dr. Wu says. “It keeps the soup lighter, but still bright and delicious.”
Tomato bisque is already built on a healthy ingredient — tomatoes. They bring antioxidants, vitamins and plenty of natural flavor to the table.
“With a few adjustments, you don’t have to drown those benefits in cream,” says Dr. Wu. “It’s about highlighting the tomato, not hiding it.”