This Tomato Basil Soup is warm and comforting, made from ripe tomatoes and fresh basil. It’s super easy to whip up and perfect for chilly days!
I love dipping grilled cheese sandwiches into this soup. It’s like a hug in a bowl! Trust me, you’ll want to make extra for those cozy nights. 🍅❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a nice flavor and helps sauté the onions. If you prefer, you could use avocado oil or butter instead for a different taste.
Onion: A medium onion provides sweetness to the soup. If you’re avoiding onions, you could leave them out or try using shallots for a milder flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances flavor significantly. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can be used (about 1/2 teaspoon per clove).
Tomatoes: Fresh ripe tomatoes are best for flavor but canned tomatoes can save time and are just as good. Opt for whole peeled tomatoes for a smoother soup.
Basil: Fresh basil is crucial for that bright flavor. Dried basil can work in a pinch but use about a third of the amount as it’s more concentrated.
Heavy Cream: This gives a rich texture. You can skip it for a lighter soup or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Tomatoes?
The key to a flavorful Tomato Basil Soup starts with how your tomatoes are prepared. When using fresh tomatoes, roasting them first intensifies their flavor. If using canned, just be sure to use high-quality brands. Additionally, cooking them with onion and garlic releases their sweetness.
- Chop fresh tomatoes, drizzle with olive oil, and roast at 400°F for 20 minutes if you’re looking to boost their sweetness.
- For canned, just add them straight to your pot with the broth, but be sure to mash them or blend for a smooth texture later.
- Simmering them well allows all the flavors to blend nicely.
This extra step can really take your soup to the next level!
How to Make Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes (or 2 cans of whole peeled tomatoes)
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed, plus extra for garnish
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional for creaminess)
For Serving:
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
- Crusty bread or toasted baguette slices, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tomato Basil Soup will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until it is soft and translucent. This brings out the natural sweetness of the onion!
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Combine the Tomatoes and Broth:
If you’re using fresh tomatoes, roughly chop them up first. Then, add your tomatoes (fresh or canned) into the pot along with the broth. Stir everything together!
4. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes. This allows the tomatoes to become very tender and helps all the flavors meld together.
5. Blend the Soup:
Add in the fresh basil, sugar if you’re using it, and season with salt and black pepper. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches your desired smoothness. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. Just be cautious as the soup will be hot!
6. Make It Creamy:
If you like a creamy texture, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half at this point. Gently heat through, but just let it warm up—don’t let it boil!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Now’s the time to taste your soup! Add more salt, pepper, or basil according to your preference to make it just right.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Tomato Basil Soup hot, garnished with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Don’t forget to have some crusty bread or toasted baguette slices on the side for dipping.
Enjoy your comforting bowl of Tomato Basil Soup, perfect for any day! 🍅❤️
Can I Use Dried Basil Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use dried basil if fresh isn’t available. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil for the best flavor. Just remember, dried herbs are more concentrated, so adjust accordingly!
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover Tomato Basil Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze Tomato Basil Soup for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Tomato Basil Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Classic options include grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a simple garden salad. Enjoy a hearty meal!
