This Tomato Basil Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Made with fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, it’s simple yet tasty. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a little comfort food!
Honestly, who can resist a bowl of soup? I love to enjoy it with a slice of grilled cheese on the side. It’s like a cozy duo that makes everything better—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A staple for sautéing the onions and garlic. You can use avocado oil or even butter if you’re looking for a different flavor. I enjoy the rich taste of butter occasionally, especially for a cozy twist.
Onion: Yellow onions work best here, adding sweetness as they cook. If you’re short on time, shallots can be a nice and milder substitute.
Fresh Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes give a vibrant taste, but canned tomatoes are a great alternative, especially when fresh ones aren’t in season. I like to use San Marzano canned tomatoes for their rich flavor!
Fresh Basil: Adds a lovely aroma and taste. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil can work in a pinch—just remember to use one-third of the amount as dried is more concentrated.
Heavy Cream/Milk: This is optional, but it adds a creamy richness. If you want a lighter version, try whole milk or a non-dairy milk like almond milk for a unique twist!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Garlic and Onion?
Perfecting the aroma of garlic and onion is key to a delicious soup. Here’s how I do it:
- Start by heating your olive oil on medium heat, then add the onions first. Sauté them until they become soft and translucent, around 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic after. Cooking garlic for just about a minute prevents it from burning, which can make it taste bitter.
- This initial step builds a sturdy flavor base that really enhances the soup’s overall taste.
Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans (14.5 oz each) of diced tomatoes)
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk (optional, for creaminess)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tomato Basil Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add in the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. This builds a wonderful base flavor for your soup!
2. Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes if you’re using them). Allow the mixture to cook for about 10 minutes, using a spoon to break down the tomatoes as they soften.
3. Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. This will help all those wonderful flavors blend together beautifully.
4. Finish with Basil and Seasoning:
Stir in the chopped basil and, if you’d like, the teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Blend to Desired Consistency:
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender, blend until smooth, and return to the pot.
6. Creamy Option (Optional):
If you like your soup creamy, stir in the heavy cream or whole milk. Heat through gently but avoid boiling to keep the cream smooth.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a few fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. Serve it hot with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a truly comforting meal!
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Canned tomatoes are a convenient and delicious substitute, especially when fresh tomatoes are out of season. Just use two cans (14.5 oz each) of diced tomatoes, and you’re good to go!
How Do I Adjust the Soup’s Acidity?
If the soup tastes too acidic, adding a teaspoon of sugar can help balance it. You can also add a pinch of baking soda, which neutralizes acidity without changing the flavor too much. Just be sure to stir thoroughly!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this soup up to 2 days in advance! Simply let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in portions—just let it cool before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It should keep well for about 2-3 months!