Easy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Tomato Basil Soup is a classic, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil. This soup is perfect for any season, offering a light yet satisfying meal. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and full of wholesome goodness.

The recipe for Tomato Basil Soup is simple and quick to prepare. With just a few ingredients like tomatoes, basil, garlic, and a touch of cream, you can create a flavorful soup that tastes like it came from a restaurant kitchen. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.

Why You’ll Love This Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

This tomato basil soup recipe is a warm and comforting meal, perfect for chilly evenings. The smooth texture and rich flavor make it ideal for cozying up after a long day. You’ll love the satisfying taste in every spoonful.

Packed with fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, this recipe delivers a burst of vibrant flavors. The simple yet tasty combination of ingredients enhances every bite, giving you the best of garden-fresh goodness in a bowl.

This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep time and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious bowl of tomato basil soup ready in no time, without any fuss.

Loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, this tomato basil soup is not only tasty but healthy too. It’s a low-calorie meal that provides essential nutrients, making it a great option for anyone looking to eat well without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredient Notes for a Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

• Olive oil: Adds richness and a smooth texture to the soup. It helps sauté the garlic and brings out the flavors of the ingredients.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the soup with a mild, savory kick. It’s an essential aromatic for depth in flavor.
• Tomatoes: The main ingredient, ripe tomatoes are key for a rich, tangy base that defines the soup’s taste. Use fresh or canned, depending on availability.
• Fresh basil: Adds a fragrant, herbaceous flavor that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes. Fresh basil leaves are best for a vibrant, fresh taste.
• Vegetable broth: Provides a savory liquid base for the soup. Choose a low-sodium vegetable broth to control the saltiness.
• Salt: Balances the flavors and brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. Adjust to taste.
• Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the soup. Freshly ground pepper is preferred for the best flavor.
• Sugar: A small amount of sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the natural sweetness.
• Heavy cream: Adds creaminess and smoothness, making the soup rich and velvety. It’s optional but recommended for a luxurious finish.

Pre-preparation of Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Now let’s prepare everything before we start cooking. It’s always helpful to have your ingredients ready to go, so you can enjoy a smooth cooking process.

• Wash the basil: Rinse the fresh basil leaves under cold water to remove any dirt.
• Chop the basil: Take a bunch of basil leaves and chop them finely. This adds a burst of flavor to the soup.
• Prep the tomatoes: If you’re using fresh tomatoes, roughly chop them into small pieces. If you’re using canned tomatoes, just open the cans and set them aside.
• Peel and chop garlic: Peel and finely chop the garlic to bring out the aromatic flavors.
• Measure out your ingredients: Measure all the spices, salt, pepper, and liquids. This will make the cooking process faster.

How to Make Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your tomato basil soup:

• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Fresh tomatoes
• Fresh basil
• Vegetable broth
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Sugar
• Heavy cream

Directions

Now let’s dive into making this soup step by step.

1. Sauté garlic and basil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add the chopped basil and cook for another minute. This releases the aromatic oils, creating the perfect base for your soup.
2. Add tomatoes: Next, add the diced fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) to the pot. Stir to combine with the garlic and basil. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and break down.
3. Add broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Blend the soup: Once the soup has cooked and thickened, take it off the heat. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. If you like a chunkier soup, you can blend only half of it.
5. Add seasoning: Stir in salt, pepper, and a touch of sugar (if desired). Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
6. Add cream (optional): If you want your soup extra creamy, pour in the heavy cream and stir. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to combine the cream with the soup.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves or a swirl of cream for a beautiful touch.

Tomato Basil Soup Recipe Variation

If you’re looking to add a twist to your tomato basil soup, consider these variations:

• Spicy Tomato Basil Soup
  Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño pepper to the soup while sautéing the onion and garlic. This will give the soup a nice kick.
• Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
  Make mini grilled cheese sandwiches, cut them into small squares, and place them on top of your soup. The cheesy croutons add extra flavor and texture.
• Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
  Roast the tomatoes in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes before adding them to the soup. This gives the soup a deeper, smoky flavor.

How to Serve Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato basil soup is best served hot, but you can enjoy it in various ways:

• With Bread: Pair it with a slice of toasted baguette or a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.
• As a Starter: Serve as a first course before the main dish for a light and flavorful beginning.
• With a Side Salad: For a balanced meal, serve the soup alongside a fresh green salad or a Caesar salad.

Storage Options

Tomato basil soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To store:

• Refrigerator: Let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge and reheat when ready to enjoy.
• Freezer: Tomato basil soup freezes well for up to 3 months. After cooling, place the soup in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then heat on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQs About Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

How long does it take to cook tomato basil soup?
It typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes to cook tomato basil soup. This includes time for simmering the tomatoes and allowing the flavors to blend together.

Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe?
Yes, canned tomatoes are a great alternative to fresh tomatoes in this soup. Just make sure to choose high-quality, unsalted canned tomatoes for the best flavor.

Can I make tomato basil soup ahead of time?
Yes, tomato basil soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months for easy future meals.

Is tomato basil soup healthy?
Tomato basil soup is a healthy option, as it is low in calories and packed with vitamins from the tomatoes and basil. Adding a little cream can increase the richness but still keep it relatively light.