Creamy Tomato-Dill Seafood Soup with Shrimp and Scallops: An Irresistibly Flavorful Recipe

If you’re a seafood lover looking for a comforting, flavor-packed soup, this Creamy Tomato-Dill Seafood Soup is an absolute must-try. Combining succulent scallops and shrimp with fresh tomatoes, dill, and a hint of lemon, this dish is perfect for chilly evenings or for impressing guests with a restaurant-quality meal at home. Not only is this soup creamy and indulgent, but it’s also simple to make and bursting with fresh flavors that seafood aficionados will love.

In this guide, we’ll take you through each step of creating this luxurious soup, complete with tips for achieving the perfect texture, balancing flavors, and maximizing the aroma of fresh dill, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic. This soup is a true treat for the senses, offering a warm, comforting bowl of seafood goodness with a fresh twist.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato-Dill Seafood Soup

Elegant Flavor Profile: With the sweetness of tomatoes, the brightness of dill, and the rich creaminess of 2% milk, this soup has a balanced, sophisticated taste.
Succulent Seafood: The combination of scallops and shrimp provides a satisfying and hearty element to the dish.
Easy Yet Impressive: While the flavors are complex, the preparation is straightforward, making it perfect for any skill level.
Versatile: Ideal as an appetizer or a main course, it pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad.
Nutrient-Dense: Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals from fresh ingredients.

Ingredient Breakdown: The Essentials for a Perfect Seafood Soup

Key Ingredients:

Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are the base of this soup. They provide a natural sweetness and acidity, essential for a well-balanced flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute with high-quality canned tomatoes for added convenience.
2% Milk: The milk adds creaminess without being too heavy, allowing the flavors of the seafood to shine. For a richer texture, you could use half-and-half or coconut milk as an alternative.
Dill: This herb brings a fresh, slightly tangy taste that complements the seafood beautifully. Use fresh dill for the best flavor, as dried dill doesn’t offer the same intensity.
Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the soup, enhancing the flavor of the seafood and cutting through the richness of the milk.
Onions and Garlic: These aromatics form the flavor foundation, adding depth and a savory undertone to the soup.
Scallops and Shrimp: These delicate seafood options provide texture and heartiness, transforming the soup into a complete, satisfying meal.

Step-by-Step Recipe: Making Creamy Tomato-Dill Seafood Soup

Let’s dive into the process of making this mouthwatering soup from scratch.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Serves: 4-6

Step 1: Gather Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following:

4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cups vegetable or seafood broth
1 cup 2% milk
1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
8 oz scallops
8 oz peeled shrimp
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: Crusty bread or garlic toast, for serving

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring continuously to prevent it from burning.

The onions and garlic form a savory base, adding depth to the soup’s overall flavor.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot, stirring well to combine with the onions and garlic.
Cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.
Pour in the vegetable or seafood broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

At this stage, the tomatoes should be soft and starting to break down, creating a flavorful base for the soup.

Step 4: Blend the Soup for Creaminess

Use an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the 2% milk. This step gives the soup a creamy, luxurious texture without being too heavy.

Adding milk after blending keeps it from curdling and ensures a velvety consistency.

Step 5: Add the Seafood

Gently add the scallops and shrimp to the pot. Stir them into the soup carefully to avoid breaking them up.
Allow the soup to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and the scallops are opaque and cooked through.

Both shrimp and scallops cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Step 6: Season and Garnish

Add the chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir gently to incorporate.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more dill or lemon juice for additional brightness.

The lemon juice adds a fresh, zesty finish, while the dill brings out the delicate flavors of the seafood.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Tomato-Dill Seafood Soup is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving ideas to enhance your meal:

Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast: Perfect for dipping, bread adds a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy texture.
Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with a lemony vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the rich, savory flavors of the soup.
White Wine: If you enjoy wine, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the seafood and fresh dill notes beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Tomato-Dill Seafood Soup

Choose Fresh Seafood: Fresh shrimp and scallops make all the difference in flavor and texture. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and pat dry before adding to the soup.
Adjust Thickness: For a thicker soup, add an extra tomato or simmer the soup a bit longer after adding the milk. For a thinner consistency, add a bit more broth.
Experiment with Herbs: While dill is traditional, parsley or basil would also work well if you’re looking to switch things up.

Nutritional Benefits of Creamy Tomato-Dill Seafood Soup

This soup isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with health benefits, thanks to its nutrient-dense ingredients. Here’s what each main component brings:

Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene, which supports heart health and reduces inflammation.
2% Milk: Provides calcium, vitamin D, and protein for bone health and muscle function.
Dill: Contains vitamins A and C and is known for its antibacterial properties.
Shrimp and Scallops: High in protein and low in fat, these seafood options are a great source of essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and B vitamins.

Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal that’s both hearty and nourishing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with coconut milk or a creamy almond milk. Coconut milk will add a subtle sweetness, while almond milk will keep the soup’s flavor more neutral.

2. What if I don’t have fresh tomatoes?

You can use canned crushed tomatoes as a convenient alternative. One 15-ounce can should be enough. Just remember that fresh tomatoes add a slightly more complex flavor.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the creamy texture.

4. Can I add other seafood?

Absolutely! This soup is versatile and works well with different types of seafood. You could add chunks of firm white fish like cod or halibut, or even a handful of clams for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tomato-Dill Seafood Soup with Shrimp and Scallops is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. It brings together the best of creamy tomato soups with the delicate flavors of fresh seafood, all tied together by the brightness of lemon and the herbaceous touch of dill. Ideal for a cozy night in or a small gathering, this soup is a satisfying and elegant addition to your recipe repertoire.

Ready to Make This Seafood Soup?

Gather your ingredients and bring the ocean’s bounty right to your kitchen. Each spoonful of this rich, creamy soup offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to make it a favorite in your home.

Cooking With Beer, Whiskey and Spirits