There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of tomato basil soup. For me, this recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a cherished memory from my childhood. I remember rainy afternoons spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, who would whip up this delightful soup, filling the house with the aroma of fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil. Each spoonful felt like a warm embrace, and to this day, I turn to this recipe whenever I need a little comfort. It’s simple, nourishing, and always brings a smile to my face.
Tomato Basil Soup
A creamy, comforting tomato basil soup made with fire-roasted tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil. It’s the ultimate cozy meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 40 min
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes, then add the fire-roasted tomatoes and vegetable broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes to blend flavors.
- Remove from heat and use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth (or transfer to a blender in batches).
- Stir in heavy cream and chopped basil. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar if needed. Simmer another 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbs: 22 g
- Protein: 5 g
Rate This Recipe
Average Rating: 2 (1 votes)
Facebook PinterestWhy This Recipe Works
This tomato basil soup stands out for several reasons:
- Fresh Ingredients: The use of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil elevates the flavor profile, making it vibrant and delicious. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the taste but also provide essential nutrients.
- Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills. It’s perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick meal.
- Versatile Base: The soup can be easily customized. Whether you prefer it creamy or chunky, you can adjust the texture to suit your taste.
- Comforting and Nourishing: The combination of tomatoes and basil creates a warm, soothing dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, making it ideal for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe serves 4 and takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of whole tomatoes)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. This step is crucial as it helps to build the flavor base for your soup.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and vegetable broth. If using canned tomatoes, crush them with a spoon. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer: Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, this is the time to add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity.
- Blend: Remove the pot from heat and add the fresh basil leaves. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
- Finish with Cream: If you’re making a creamy version, stir in the heavy cream at this stage. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
My Pro Tips for Success
- Use Quality Tomatoes: The flavor of your soup will greatly depend on the quality of the tomatoes. If possible, use vine-ripened tomatoes for the best taste.
- Experiment with Herbs: While basil is traditional, feel free to add other herbs like thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.
- Make it Ahead: This soup freezes beautifully. Make a double batch and store it in individual portions for a quick meal later.
- Garnish Creatively: Top your soup with croutons, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added texture and flavor.
What I Serve With This Recipe
- Grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic pairing.
- Crusty bread or baguette for dipping.
- A fresh garden salad for a light and healthy side.
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh? Absolutely! Canned tomatoes are a great alternative and can save time. Just make sure to choose high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
How can I make this soup vegan? Simply omit the heavy cream or substitute it with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
Can I add other vegetables? Yes! Feel free to add carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table
This tomato basil soup is not just a recipe; it’s a warm embrace on a cold day, a reminder of cherished moments spent in the kitchen, and a dish that brings comfort and joy. Its simplicity and versatility make it a staple in my home, and I believe it will become a beloved recipe in yours as well. The combination of fresh ingredients and heartfelt memories makes it truly special.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this tomato basil soup recipe and experience the warmth it brings. Whether you’re enjoying it on a rainy day or sharing it with loved ones, I’d love to hear your thoughts and any variations you come up with. Share your experiences and let’s keep the love for this comforting dish alive!
Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chopped tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp sugar (if using fresh tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and vegetable broth. If using canned tomatoes, crush them with a spoon. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer: Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity.
- Blend: Remove the pot from heat and add the fresh basil leaves. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. For a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
- Finish with Cream: If you prefer a creamy version, stir in the heavy cream at this stage. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Leave a Reply