Have you ever craved a warm bowl of comfort that envelops your senses? Imagine sitting down on a chilly evening with a steaming bowl of tomato basil soup in hand. The vibrant red color and the fragrant aroma wafting through the air instantly ease your worries. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that warms both the body and soul.
Tomato basil soup is a classic that evokes memories of cozy family dinners and lazy afternoons. Its smooth texture combined with the fresh taste of basil makes it a delightful choice for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a starter or the main course paired with crusty bread, this recipe promises to deliver an amazing flavor experience that will leave you wanting more.
Why You’ll Love This Tomato Basil Soup.
- Quick and Easy Preparation: This tomato basil soup can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Health Benefits: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants from tomatoes and fresh herbs, this soup is not only delicious but also nourishing.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with grilled cheese sandwiches, salads, or pasta for a complete meal.
Ingredients for Tomato Basil Soup.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are essential for the best flavor; you can use Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes for sweetness.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Use aromatic basil leaves to enhance the flavor; choose dark green leaves without blemishes.
- Onion: A medium-sized onion adds sweetness and depth to the soup; yellow onions work best due to their balanced flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic richness; chop them finely for even distribution in the dish.
- Vegetable Broth: Choose low-sodium vegetable broth for better control over saltiness while adding depth to the flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Tomato Basil Soup.
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by washing your fresh tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly. Dice the tomatoes and chop the onion and garlic finely.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes
Stir in diced tomatoes along with salt and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes until they soften and release their juices.
Step 4: Pour Broth
Add vegetable broth into the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for another 10 minutes to meld flavors together.
Step 5: Blend It Smooth
Using an immersion blender or transferring to a traditional blender in batches, puree the mixture until smooth.
Step 6: Stir in Basil
Return the blended soup to low heat; stir in freshly torn basil leaves just before serving for optimal flavor.
Transfer to bowls and garnish with extra basil leaves if desired for a beautiful presentation.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Choose Ripe Tomatoes: For maximum flavor, opt for ripe tomatoes when making this soup.
- Experiment with Creaminess: Add heavy cream or coconut milk after blending if you prefer a creamier texture.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for later enjoyment.
Mistakes to avoid
- Using canned tomatoes only: While canned tomatoes can be convenient, relying solely on them can diminish the flavor of your Tomato Basil Soup. Fresh tomatoes provide a vibrant taste that elevates the dish. If you’re making this soup during tomato season, opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes. If fresh ones are unavailable, choose high-quality canned tomatoes, preferably San Marzano, to maintain rich flavors.
- Neglecting the basil: Basil is a key ingredient in Tomato Basil Soup. Skipping or skimping on fresh basil can result in a bland soup. Always use fresh basil instead of dried for the best flavor. Add it at the end of cooking to preserve its aromatic qualities, and consider garnishing with additional basil leaves before serving for an extra punch.
- Overcooking the soup: Cooking your Tomato Basil Soup too long can lead to a loss of freshness and brightness. Aim for a balance where the flavors meld without losing their integrity. Cook just until heated through and flavors are well combined. Avoid letting it simmer excessively; this helps retain both color and nutrients in your ingredients.
- Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning is a common mistake when making Tomato Basil Soup. Without enough salt, the flavors can taste flat. Start with a pinch of salt while cooking and adjust according to taste at the end. Remember that ingredients like broth or canned tomatoes may already contain salt, so taste frequently as you season.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato Basil Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of freshly baked sourdough or a baguette complements the soup’s flavors perfectly. Dip it into the warm soup for a delightful contrast in texture.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic combination of tomato soup and a gooey grilled cheese sandwich is beloved by many. Try using different cheeses or adding herbs to elevate the flavors.
- Salad: A light side salad, such as a Caesar or Caprese salad, balances the richness of the Tomato Basil Soup. The freshness of greens enhances the overall meal experience.
FAQs
What are the main ingredients in Tomato Basil Soup?
Tomato Basil Soup primarily consists of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, onions, garlic, and vegetable or chicken broth. You can choose between canned tomatoes for convenience or fresh ones for a more vibrant flavor. Essential seasonings like salt, pepper, and perhaps a dash of sugar enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. Some recipes incorporate cream for added richness, giving the soup a velvety texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting that comforting bowl of goodness that many adore.
Can I make Tomato Basil Soup vegan?
Absolutely! To create a vegan version of Tomato Basil Soup, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Additionally, skip any dairy products like cream or butter. You can achieve creaminess by blending in soaked cashews or coconut milk if desired. Fresh basil remains essential to provide that aromatic flavor profile that defines this dish. Vegan alternatives maintain all the deliciousness while catering to plant-based diets.
How do I store leftover Tomato Basil Soup?
Storing leftover Tomato Basil Soup is quite simple and ensures you can enjoy it later. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to four days or frozen for about three months. When ready to serve again, reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. If frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
Can I freeze Tomato Basil Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Tomato Basil Soup successfully! Ensure that you let it cool down before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Leaving some space at the top is important as liquids expand when frozen. To enjoy later, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on your stovetop until piping hot. This allows you to savor homemade comfort food anytime you desire!
Conclusion for Tomato Basil Soup
In summary, Tomato Basil Soup is an easy yet rewarding dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its simple ingredients—ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, aromatic garlic, and onion—it showcases vibrant flavors that are hard to resist. Whether served with crusty bread or alongside a grilled cheese sandwich, this soup proves to be a versatile companion for various meals. Storing leftovers properly allows you to enjoy this delicious creation throughout the week or even longer by freezing it! Experiment with different variations to find your perfect bowl of Tomato Basil Soup today!
Tomato Basil Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Tomato Basil Soup is the epitome of comfort food, offering a warm hug in a bowl. Made with fresh, ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, this classic soup is both rich in flavor and incredibly easy to prepare. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a delightful dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh tomatoes (diced)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by washing tomatoes and basil, then dicing the tomatoes and chopping the onion and garlic.
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté chopped onion in olive oil until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper; cook for 10 minutes until softened.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or traditional blender.
- Return to low heat, stir in torn basil leaves just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
