There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of tomato basil soup recipe that instantly transports you back to simpler times. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, mingling with memories of childhood lunches and cozy afternoons spent curled up with a good book. Picture this: rich, ripe tomatoes blended into a velvety soup, brightened by fresh basil—a dish that is as comforting as your favorite sweater on a chilly evening.
Now, imagine gathering around the table with family or friends, each spoonful igniting laughter and warmth. This tomato basil soup recipe isn’t just food; it’s an experience that evokes nostalgia. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking solace on a rainy day, this bowl of goodness promises to deliver flavors that dance on your taste buds and fill your heart with happiness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This tomato basil soup recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
- Its flavor profile bursts with freshness from ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil
- Visually appealing with its vibrant red hue, it brightens any dining table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair beautifully with grilled cheese or crusty bread for dipping
I still remember the first time I made this tomato basil soup recipe for my family; their delighted reactions were priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor; heirloom varieties work wonderfully here.
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Fresh Basil: Choose vibrant green leaves; the fresher the basil, the more aromatic your soup will be.
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Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness; sauté it until translucent for depth of flavor.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the richness; don’t skimp on this aromatic gem.
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Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing the overall taste.
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Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a beautiful richness while sautéing your onions and garlic.
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Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; these essentials bring out all the natural flavors in your soup.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma—about 5 minutes.
Add Garlic: Toss in minced garlic and let it sizzle for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; we’re aiming for golden goodness here!
Add Tomatoes: Now, it’s time to introduce your fresh tomatoes! Chop them roughly before adding them to the pot. Stir everything together and cook until they soften—around 10 minutes should do.
Pour in Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Allow it to bubble away for 15-20 minutes so all those delightful flavors can meld together beautifully.
Add Basil: Once simmered, stir in freshly torn basil leaves, allowing them to wilt slightly. This will infuse your soup with that unmistakable aromatic flair we all love.
Blend Until Smooth: Carefully blend the soup using an immersion blender until silky smooth. If you prefer some texture, pulse it just a few times—your choice!
Now that you’ve got this delicious tomato basil soup ready, serve it hot with crusty bread or grilled cheese for that perfect meal combo!
You Must Know
- This delightful tomato basil soup recipe is a warm hug in a bowl
- The vibrant colors and rich aroma will make your kitchen feel like an Italian trattoria, perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests with minimal fuss
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add tomatoes and broth. Blend until smooth for a velvety texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap fresh basil for dried, or add a splash of cream for ultra-richness. Spice things up with red pepper flakes!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days, and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor; their sweetness elevates the entire dish
- Don’t rush the sautéing process; it builds depth in flavor
- Experiment with toppings like croutons or cheese to add texture and flair
Sharing this tomato basil soup recipe brings back memories of chilly evenings spent gathering around the table with family, laughing and savoring every delicious spoonful.
FAQ
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Canned tomatoes provide convenience and still deliver great flavor for this soup recipe.
How can I thicken my tomato basil soup?
Add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water or some cooked potatoes for a thicker consistency.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes! Just cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Tomato Basil Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Warm up with a bowl of homemade tomato basil soup, brimming with the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil. This easy-to-make recipe combines fresh ingredients for a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion—from cozy nights in to gatherings with friends and family. Serve it alongside crusty bread or grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until softened (approximately 10 minutes).
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Stir in the torn basil leaves and blend until smooth using an immersion blender.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or grilled cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Sautéing/Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
