Tomato Basil Soup

Picture a steaming bowl of Tomato Basil Soup, where the rich aroma of tomatoes mingles with the sweet, fragrant basil.

This simple, comforting soup is a breeze to make, yet feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day.

As the ingredients meld, watch as canned tomatoes transform into a velvety, flavorful symphony.

Ready to experience this delightful harmony? Let’s bring this dish to life.

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 Large pot
• 1 Blender or immersion blender
• 1 Wooden spoon
• 1 Knife
• 1 Cutting board
• 1 Ladle

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 28 ounces canned whole tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking Tomato Basil Soup, you can follow the timeline below:

1. Reading and Preparation (5 minutes)
   • Read through the entire recipe and gather all the required ingredients and equipment.
2. Prep Work (10 minutes)
   • Chop the medium onion.
   • Mince the garlic cloves.
3. Cooking (30 minutes)
   • 0-5 minutes: Heat the olive oil in the large pot over medium heat.
   • 5-10 minutes: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until translucent.
   • 10-11 minutes: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
   • 11-13 minutes: Add canned whole tomatoes and their juice to the pot.
   • 13-15 minutes: Pour in the vegetable broth and stir to combine.
   • 15-16 minutes: Add sugar, salt, and black pepper to the mixture.
   • 16-36 minutes: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Resting and Blending (10 minutes)
   • 36-46 minutes: Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly.
   • Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Finishing Touches (5 minutes)
   • 46-51 minutes: Return the soup to the pot and reheat over low heat.
   • Stir in the fresh basil leaves and heavy cream.
   • Heat until warmed through.
6. Serving (2 minutes)
   • 51-53 minutes: Serve the soup warm.

Recipe Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add canned whole tomatoes and their juice to the pot.

Pour in the vegetable broth and stir to combine.

Add sugar, salt, and black pepper to the mixture.

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly.

Transfer the soup to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree until smooth.

Return the soup to the pot and reheat over low heat.

Stir in fresh basil leaves and heavy cream.

Heat until warmed through, then serve.

Serving Tips

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping and soaking up the flavorful soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pair with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• Parmesan Cheese: Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of richness and flavor.
• Garlic Croutons: Add homemade or store-bought garlic croutons for a crunchy texture contrast.
• Side Salad: Complement with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a revitalizing balance.

Storage

To store Tomato Basil Soup, let it cool completely.

Then transfer to an airtight container.

Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Alternatively, freeze for up to 3 months for extended preservation.

Freezing

To freeze tomato basil soup, let it cool completely.

Then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags.

Label with the date and freeze for up to three months.

Reheating

To reheat Tomato Basil Soup, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat.

Stir occasionally.

Avoid boiling to preserve the soup’s creamy texture and fresh basil flavor.

Final Thoughts

Tomato Basil Soup is a classic Italian dish that combines the rich flavors of tomatoes and basil.

It’s a comforting and delicious meal that can be enjoyed any time of year.

The recipe is simple and straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.

With its creamy texture and aromatic herbs, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Whether served as a starter or a main course, Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful way to enjoy the taste of Italy in your own kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?

You can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. Blanch, peel, and core them before chopping. Roast at 400°F for 15 minutes to intensify flavors. Add them with their juices to your simmering ingredients for a fresher taste.

How Can I Make the Soup Vegan?

Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a vegan twist. Use nutritional yeast for umami depth instead of cheese. Confirm all ingredients, including vegetable broth, are vegan-friendly. This maintains the soup’s richness while adhering to vegan principles.

What Are Some Good Side Dishes for Tomato Basil Soup?

Pair your dish with a classic grilled cheese, featuring sourdough and sharp cheddar. Alternatively, serve a crisp Caesar salad or toasted garlic bread. For a sophisticated touch, consider a Caprese salad with balsamic reduction.

Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream With a Dairy-Free Option?

Absolutely, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option. Both options provide creaminess without dairy. Make certain you blend them well into your soup, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while maintaining the desired texture.

How Do I Adjust the Recipe for More or Less Servings?

To adjust servings, scale ingredients proportionally. For more, multiply each by desired serving number over four. For fewer, divide each by the same. Maintain cooking times, but taste and adjust seasoning to guarantee balanced flavors.