Tomato Basil Soup Recipe: A Comforting Classic

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of tomato basil soup to lift your spirits, especially when paired with a grilled cheese sandwich on a chilly day. This classic recipe is not only simple to make but also packed with vibrant flavors from ripe tomatoes and fresh basil. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or as a starter to a special meal, this tomato basil soup recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

In this article, we’ll guide you step by step through creating the perfect homemade tomato basil soup, providing tips, nutritional info, and storage suggestions to make sure your soup turns out just right every time.

Ingredients for Tomato Basil Soup

To make a hearty and flavorful tomato basil soup, you will need:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or use coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Base

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent. This step is key to building the flavor base for your soup.

2. Add Tomatoes and Broth

Next, add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine. If you want a slightly smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend the tomatoes before adding the broth, but it’s totally up to your preference.

3. Season the Soup

Stir in the oregano, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The sugar helps reduce the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a more balanced flavor.

4. Add Fresh Basil

Once the soup has simmered, add the fresh basil and stir. Let the basil infuse the soup for an additional 5 minutes. The aroma from the basil will be amazing!

5. Finish the Soup

Turn off the heat and stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) to give the soup a rich, creamy texture. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can blend the soup using an immersion blender or by transferring it to a blender in batches.

6. Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra fresh basil. Serve with a side of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Recipe Notes

• Creamy Texture: If you like your soup extra creamy, feel free to add more cream, or even a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top when serving.
• Fresh vs. Canned Tomatoes: While canned tomatoes are convenient and give a great flavor, using fresh tomatoes (around 8-10 medium tomatoes) in season will provide an even fresher taste.
• Blending the Soup: If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip blending the soup entirely or blend it partially for a more textured consistency.
• Sweetness Tip: If you find the soup a bit too tangy, adjust with a little extra sugar or a pinch of baking soda to cut through the acidity.

Time and Serving Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

How to Serve Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato basil soup is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are a few ideas to enjoy it:

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic pairing! The creamy soup and crispy, cheesy sandwich are a match made in comfort food heaven.
• Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with baguette slices or any crusty bread for dipping.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will complement the soup’s richness.
• Garnish: Top the soup with a swirl of cream, extra fresh basil, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftover soup, you can store it in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. When reheating, you may need to add a little more broth or water to restore its desired consistency.

Freezing: Tomato basil soup freezes beautifully! To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply defrost it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 180-200
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg

Note: These values may vary based on the ingredients you use, especially the amount of cream and broth.

Extra Tips for the Perfect Tomato Basil Soup

• Use Ripe Tomatoes: The riper the tomatoes, the better the soup will taste. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, make sure they’re at their peak.
• Add Spice: For a little extra kick, add red pepper flakes or a small chopped jalapeño to the soup as it simmers.
• Basil Storage: If you have leftover basil, store it in the fridge with a damp paper towel wrapped around it. Alternatively, you can freeze basil by pureeing it with olive oil and freezing it in ice cube trays.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of tomato basil soup. It’s the perfect meal for a chilly evening, a quick lunch, or a starter to any dinner. With its fresh ingredients, simple steps, and rich, creamy flavor, this recipe is one you’ll keep coming back