This Tomato Basil Soup is warm and comforting! Made with fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, it’s a simple recipe that packs a flavorful punch.
I love how cozy this soup makes my kitchen smell! Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich, and you have the perfect lunch or dinner. Yum! 🍅🍵
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: It’s great for sautéing due to its flavor. You can use other oils like avocado or vegetable oil if needed, but I find olive oil adds a lovely depth!
Onion: A medium onion is perfect for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, shallots work too for a milder taste.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes really shine in this soup, but canned tomatoes are a fantastic alternative when fresh ones aren’t available. Look for whole peeled tomatoes for the best flavor.
Broth: Vegetable or chicken broth provides a rich base. If you’re vegetarian, definitely stick with vegetable broth. You could even use water, but the flavor won’t be as robust.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that classic taste. If you can’t find it, dried basil can be used—just reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon, as it’s stronger.
Heavy Cream: It adds creaminess but is completely optional. If you want a lighter version, you could use milk or skip it altogether.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Onions and Garlic?
Cooking onions and garlic well is essential for a tasty soup. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by sautéing onions in olive oil at medium heat, which helps them soften and release their natural sugars.
- Once they’re translucent, add garlic for just a minute. Garlic cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it—burnt garlic can ruin the flavor!
This gentle cooking method builds a solid base for your soup and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Happy cooking!
Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes)
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Bread slices, toasted and buttered (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Tomato Basil Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 45 minutes. Perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take around 5 minutes. This is where the flavor begins to build!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot. Stir it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be mindful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
3. Cook the Tomatoes:
Add your chopped fresh tomatoes or the canned tomatoes (include the juices). Stir everything together and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This helps the tomatoes break down and release their juices.
4. Add Broth and Simmer:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This melds all the delicious flavors together.
5. Mix in Basil and Season:
Add the chopped basil leaves and sugar (if you’re using it) to the pot. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
6. Blend the Soup:
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.
7. Add Cream (Optional):
If you like a creamy soup, stir in the heavy cream and heat it through for a couple of minutes.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Finish it off with a dash of freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor.
9. Pair with Toasted Bread:
Serve your delicious Tomato Basil Soup hot, alongside toasted and buttered bread. It’s a perfect pairing!
Enjoy every bite of your comforting and flavorful Tomato Basil Soup!
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh ripe tomatoes add vibrant flavor to the soup. Just chop about 4 cups of fresh tomatoes and follow the same cooking instructions. If your tomatoes are a bit acidic, feel free to add that teaspoon of sugar!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until hot.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, Tomato Basil Soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you prefer a lighter soup or want to avoid dairy, you can use coconut milk for a creamy texture or simply omit the cream altogether. The soup will still be delicious without it!
