Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

Imagine warming up on a chilly day with a bowl of rich and comforting tomato basil soup. You’re going to love this easy recipe that brings together fresh or canned tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a touch of cream for extra richness. This soup is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner.

If you’re looking for a healthy and flavorful meal, this tomato basil soup is a fantastic choice. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a cozy bowl that’s great on its own or paired with a crusty loaf of bread or a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. The creamy texture and savory taste make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s bursting with flavor! You don’t need to be a professional chef to pull off this delicious soup – it’s simple enough for beginners and satisfying enough for seasoned cooks.

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

To make tomato basil soup, you’ll need the following ingredients.

Main Ingredients:

• Tomatoes: About 2 pounds, preferably Roma or plum tomatoes. You can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available.
• Olive Oil: 2-3 tablespoons. Substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped. Shallots work if you don’t have an onion.

Liquid Ingredients:

• Chicken Broth: 4 cups. Vegetable broth works as a vegetarian option.
• Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup for creaminess. Half-and-half or coconut milk can be used as substitutes.

Seasonings:

• Fresh Basil: 1/2 cup, chopped. Dried basil works if fresh is not available, but use less, about 1-2 tablespoons.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Season to your preference.
• Sugar: 1 teaspoon to balance the acidity. Honey or a sugar substitute can be used.

Optional Add-ons:

• Butter: 2 tablespoons. Optional but adds richness. Margarine or a vegan alternative can be used.
• Parmesan Cheese: For garnish. Leave it out for a dairy-free option.

Instructions Recap

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Halve the tomatoes, season, and roast them for 40-45 minutes. Sauté onion and garlic, then add tomatoes, broth, and seasonings. Simmer, blend, and stir in cream and butter, if using.

Feel free to switch out ingredients based on what’s available to you or your dietary needs.

Instructions

1. 
   

   Prepare Ingredients
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Gather all the ingredients and cut your tomatoes in half. Peel your garlic cloves.

   
   
2. 
   

   Roast Tomatoes and Garlic
   Place the halved tomatoes and garlic cloves on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 40-45 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.

   
   
3. 
   

   Sauté Onion
   While the tomatoes are roasting, heat a soup pot over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and diced onion. Sauté until the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes.

   
   
4. 
   

   Add Garlic
   Add the roasted garlic to the pot and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

   
   
5. 
   

   Combine Ingredients
   Add the roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, and a pinch of sugar to the pot. Stir well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes.

   
   
6. 
   

   Blend the Soup
   Remove the pot from heat and stir in fresh basil leaves. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches using a regular blender.

   
   
7. 
   

   Adjust Seasonings
   Taste your soup and add more salt, pepper, or basil if needed.

   
   
8. 
   

   Serve Warm
   Ladle into bowls and enjoy! You can also add a drizzle of cream or extra olive oil on top for added richness.

   
   

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Tips & Tricks

Choose the Right Tomatoes: Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor. If out of season, canned tomatoes work well too.

Roast for Depth: Roasting tomatoes before adding them to the soup can enhance their flavor. Just coat them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F for about 40-45 minutes.

Herbs Matter: Fresh basil is key. Add it towards the end to keep the bright flavor.

Blending: An immersion blender is handy for pureeing soup directly in the pot. If using a regular blender, blend in batches to avoid spills.

Creaminess: For a creamy texture, add a small amount of heavy cream or coconut milk toward the end of cooking.

Storing

Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freeze: You can freeze tomato basil soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It keeps well for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warm. If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Additional Tips

• Add-ins: Customize your soup with add-ins like roasted red peppers, a splash of balsamic vinegar, or a bit of Parmesan cheese.
• Garnish: Top with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh basil, or croutons for added texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

Recipe Variations

There are many ways you can adjust this Tomato Basil Soup to fit your tastes:

• Creamy Version: Add a cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
• Spicy Twist: Mix in some red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño.
• Herb Boost: Add oregano, thyme, or rosemary along with the basil.

You can also experiment with other vegetables:

• Carrots: Add some chopped carrots for a bit of sweetness.
• Bell Peppers: Roast red or yellow bell peppers with the tomatoes.
• Spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach at the end for extra greens.

Serving Suggestions

Here are a few ideas to pair with your soup:

• Grilled Cheese: The classic combo! Dip your sandwich into the soup for a tasty bite.
• Croutons: Sprinkle some crunchy croutons on top for added texture.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the flavors.

You can also garnish your soup to make it special:

• Basil Leaves: Top with fresh basil leaves for a final touch.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of olive oil can enhance the flavor.