This Classic Tomato Basil Soup is a simple, delicious recipe perfect for a cozy meal. Made with fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and just a hint of cream, this soup is comforting, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil – Adds a rich flavor and helps soften the veggies.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Brings depth and sweetness to the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Provides a wonderful aromatic base.
- 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of diced tomatoes) – Fresh tomatoes add a vibrant taste, but canned works just as well.
- 2 cups vegetable broth – Creates a nice, light base for the soup.
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped – Adds a burst of fresh flavor; dried basil can be used in a pinch.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Enhances the flavors.
- Optional: A dash of cream – For extra richness and a smoother texture.
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This creates a sweet, flavorful base for your soup.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
- Cook the Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot, stirring well. Let the tomatoes cook down for about 10 minutes. They will release their juices and become tender, forming the base of the soup.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to fully combine.
- Blend Until Smooth: Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches, but be cautious as the soup will be hot.
- Add Basil and Season: Stir in the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Fresh basil brings an amazing aroma and taste, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Optional Cream Finish: For a creamier soup, add a small dash of cream, stirring it in gently to create a silky texture. This step is optional but gives the soup a smooth, rich finish.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra basil leaves if desired. Serve warm, with crusty bread or grilled cheese for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Tomato Basil Soup
- For a richer flavor, roast the tomatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes before adding them to the pot.
- For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth slightly or let the soup simmer a little longer to cook off some of the liquid.
- Feel free to add a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes taste too acidic, which balances the flavors nicely.
This Classic Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting and versatile recipe that’s perfect for any time of the year. Enjoy!
