This Tomato Basil Soup is warm and comforting, made with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of garlic. It’s smooth, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy day.
I like to make it ahead and heat it up—it’s like giving myself a hug in a bowl. Sometimes I sprinkle cheese on top just for fun!
If you want, serve it with crusty bread or a grilled cheese for a simple, tasty meal.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ripe Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes create the soup’s vibrant flavor. I use Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes for sweetness. If fresh isn’t available, use canned diced tomatoes—they’re a quick and tasty alternative.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds a bright, fragrant note. I like to tear leaves instead of chopping for more flavor. If you don’t have fresh, try dried basil, but use half the amount as it’s more concentrated.
Onion and Garlic: They form the base flavor. I sauté them until soft for sweetness. For a milder taste, skip the garlic or add a pinch of onion powder. Fresh is best, but shallots work if you want a gentler flavor.
Vegetable Broth: Brings the soup to life and thins it out. Use low-sodium broth so you can control salt. If not available, chicken broth works well, but keep an eye on the salt level.
How do I blend the soup smoothly without leaving chunks?
Allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to prevent splatters. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot for easiest pureeing. If using a regular blender, blend in batches and leave a small vent cap open to steam escape. Be cautious and pour carefully.
How to Make Tomato Basil Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Produce
- 4 cups tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Pantry
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: 30 minutes. Total: 40 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add chopped onion and garlic. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Tomatoes
Stir in chopped tomatoes. Cook for 10 minutes until they break down and release juice.
3. Blend Soup
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids.
4. Add Basil and Broth
Stir in fresh basil leaves and vegetable broth. Simmer for 10 minutes to combine flavors.
5. Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil if desired.
