This warm and comforting tomato basil soup is pure joy in a bowl! With fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, it’s both tasty and satisfying.
Sometimes, I like to pair it with a crunchy grilled cheese sandwich. It’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds! Who could resist? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its flavor. If you’re out, feel free to use canola or vegetable oil instead. They won’t change your soup much!
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness. If you’re sensitive to onions, shallots or leeks can work well in its place. They’re milder in flavor!
Fresh Tomatoes: Using fresh tomatoes gives a lovely flavor, but canned tomatoes can save time! I prefer San Marzano tomatoes as they are usually sweeter. If you don’t have either, crushed tomatoes work too!
Basil: Fresh basil is essential for this recipe! If you can’t find fresh basil, dried basil can be used, but start with about one-third of the amount since it’s more concentrated.
Heavy Cream: If you want a lighter soup, skip the cream. You can substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free option, which adds a nice creaminess too!
How Do I Make My Soup Smooth?
Blending your soup is key for that silky texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Using an immersion blender: stick it directly into the pot and blend until smooth. It’s quick and easy!
- If using a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly. Fill the blender halfway and hold the lid tightly, covering it with a kitchen towel to avoid splashes. Blend until smooth.
- Return the blended soup to the pot and heat it through with the basil and seasonings.
Taking this step properly makes your soup much more appealing and enjoyable!
How to Make Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans 14.5 oz diced tomatoes)
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 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 or half-and-half (optional for creaminess)
- Croutons for topping
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook, with about 5 minutes of gentle heating after blending. In total, you’ll be enjoying your delicious tomato basil soup in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the chopped onion. Sauté it for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. This step builds the base flavor of your soup! Then, add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell the garlic’s delicious aroma.
2. Adding Tomatoes & Broth:
Next, stir in the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes if using). Add the vegetable or chicken broth as well. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. You want those tomatoes to break down and soften nicely. It will smell amazing in your kitchen during this time!
3. Blending to Perfection:
Once the tomatoes are soft, carefully remove the pot from heat. Now it’s time to blend! If you have an immersion blender, simply blend the soup right in the pot until smooth. If you’re using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly first. Blend in batches, being careful not to fill the blender too full. Return the smooth soup back to the pot when done.
4. Final Flavors:
Stir in the chopped basil, sugar (if using), and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Gently heat the soup on low for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together. If you like a creamier texture, this is the moment to add the heavy cream or half-and-half and warm it through.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
It’s time to enjoy your soup! Serve it hot in bowls, and don’t forget to garnish with extra basil leaves, homemade croutons, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you wish. Pair it with some toasted bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal!
Get ready to savor this lovely, creamy tomato basil soup! Enjoy every delicious spoonful!
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Canned tomatoes can be a great time-saver. Use 2 cans of 14.5 oz diced tomatoes for a convenient option. Just be sure to drain excess liquid if you prefer a thicker soup.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
To make this soup vegan, simply omit the heavy cream and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add a splash of coconut milk at the end for creaminess if desired!
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
No worries! If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil. Start with about 1 teaspoon, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. Add it during the cooking process so it has time to rehydrate and release its flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. If the soup thickens, add a little broth or water to reach your desired consistency!
