Is there anything better than a warm bowl of Tomato Basil Soup on a chilly day? This classic soup is rich, creamy, and bursting with the sweet, tangy flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil. Whether you’re pairing it with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich or enjoying it on its own, this recipe is sure to become a go-to comfort meal in your kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients, and it tastes like pure warmth and comfort in every spoonful!
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Why You’ll Love This Tomato Basil Soup 🍅🌿
Simple and Quick: With just a handful of ingredients and 30 minutes, you can have a homemade soup that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.
Rich and Creamy: This soup is blended to silky perfection, and the addition of cream or coconut milk makes it extra luxurious.
Packed with Fresh Flavor: The combination of sweet tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fresh basil creates a flavor-packed, comforting soup.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or an appetizer for guests, this soup fits right in.
What Does Tomato Basil Soup Taste Like? 🍅
Tomato Basil Soup has a perfectly balanced flavor profile. The tomatoes give a natural sweetness and slight acidity, while the garlic and onions add savory depth. The fresh basil brings a light, herbal note that complements the tomatoes beautifully. The creamy texture rounds everything out, making this soup smooth, rich, and irresistibly comforting.
Benefits of This Soup
- Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian (easily made vegan with a simple swap!).
- Rich in vitamins and antioxidants from the tomatoes and basil.
- A healthy and low-calorie option that feels indulgent.
- Freezer-friendly, making it a perfect recipe for meal prep.
Ingredients for Tomato Basil Soup 🍅🌿
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 oz) whole or diced tomatoes (or 6-8 fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: extra basil, parmesan cheese, or croutons
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Immersion blender or regular blender
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Ladle and mixing spoon
Ingredient Substitutions & Additions
- No fresh basil? You can substitute with 1-2 teaspoons of dried basil, though fresh basil gives the best flavor.
- Need a dairy-free version? Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk, or omit it entirely for a lighter, dairy-free soup.
- Love roasted tomatoes? Roast the tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the soup for an extra layer of flavor.
- Extra veggies? Add some carrots or bell peppers to the soup for more texture and nutrition.
How to Make Tomato Basil Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5-6 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the canned (or fresh) tomatoes along with their juices. Add the vegetable broth, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Return the soup to the pot.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Basil
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk). Add the chopped fresh basil and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and sugar (if needed to balance acidity).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra fresh basil, grated parmesan cheese, or croutons for added crunch. Serve with a warm slice of crusty bread or your favorite grilled cheese sandwich.
What to Serve with Tomato Basil Soup
Tomato Basil Soup is a classic pairing with a grilled cheese sandwich, but it also goes wonderfully with garlic bread, croutons, or a fresh green salad. For something heartier, serve it alongside a savory quiche or a side of roasted vegetables.
Tips for Making the Best Tomato Basil Soup
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor, or, if using fresh tomatoes, make sure they’re ripe and flavorful.
- Roast the tomatoes for a deeper, richer flavor. Simply roast them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes before adding them to the soup.
- Blend to your preferred texture—for a chunkier soup, pulse the blender a few times instead of fully pureeing the soup.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes, especially if using canned tomatoes.
How to Store and Reheat Tomato Basil Soup
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the soup over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure it heats evenly.
This soup also freezes well! Simply cool the soup completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
FAQs About Tomato Basil Soup
Q: Can I make this soup vegan?
A: Yes! Just swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or leave it out entirely for a dairy-free, vegan-friendly version.
Q: Do I need to peel the tomatoes if using fresh ones?
A: Yes, peeling fresh tomatoes will give the soup a smoother texture. To peel them easily, score an “X” on the bottom of each tomato, blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath. The skins will peel right off!
Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! While fresh basil gives the best flavor, you can substitute 1-2 teaspoons of dried basil if that’s what you have on hand.
Conclusion: Warm Up with Homemade Tomato Basil Soup 🍅🌿🍲
There’s nothing like a comforting bowl of Tomato Basil Soup to warm you up on a chilly day. With its fresh, simple ingredients and rich, creamy texture, this soup is the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re making it for a cozy lunch or pairing it with a grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort meal, this soup is a must-try!
Looking for more cozy recipes? Check out my Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Soup or Butternut Squash Soup for more delicious options!
Don’t forget to share your Tomato Basil Soup creations on Pinterest and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious bowls! 🍅🌿
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 18g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 4g
