How to Make a Hearty Tomato Basil Soup

Looking for a cozy and comforting meal that’s easy on the wallet? Try making your very own tomato basil soup at home! This classic recipe is not only delicious but also provides a great balance of flavors, perfect for those chilly evenings. In this article, we will walk you through how to prepare this simple yet satisfying dish.

The key ingredient in our tomato basil soup is canned tomatoes. Canned tomatoes are a convenient and versatile option that can be found year-round in most supermarkets or grocery stores. They also provide a rich flavor foundation for the soup while adding essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can of diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes. This soup makes about 6 servings.

Steps to Prepare Tomato Basil Soup

1. Heat the oil in a large pot: Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large pot or saucepan. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
2. Add garlic for flavor: Next, toss in the minced garlic cloves and let them cook with the onions for about a minute. The garlic will provide that wonderful aroma which adds to the overall taste of the soup.
3. Combine tomatoes and broth: Add the can of diced tomatoes along with chicken broth or vegetable broth into the pot, stirring everything together until well combined. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you may use an immersion blender at this stage. For those who like more texture, leave it as is.
4. Simmer gently: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and also helps break down the tomatoes further, giving you an even richer flavor profile.
5. Add cream and basil (optional): After the soup has been simmering for around fifteen minutes, stir in heavy cream and fresh basil if desired. These additions give it a creamy texture and extra freshness without overpowering the base flavors of the soup.
6. Season to taste: Finally, season the soup with salt and pepper according to your personal preference. Taste test and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving.

Tips & Variations

• If you want a lighter version of this soup, replace part of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or yogurt for fewer calories without sacrificing too much flavor.
• For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables like carrots or zucchini to increase its nutritional value and make it more filling.

This tomato basil soup is versatile enough that you could serve it as part of a larger meal with crusty bread or alongside a salad for a lighter option. It pairs wonderfully well with grilled chicken, fish, or even just a side of garlic bread.

Storage & Serving Suggestions

To store leftover tomato basil soup, let the pot cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator where it will last for up to four days. If you're freezing portions, do so within two hours of cooling down and use within three months.

For serving, ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves or a dollop of sour cream if desired. This simple yet delightful dish is sure to become one of your family favorites!

Conclusion

A homemade tomato basil soup recipe like this one offers an affordable and easy way to enjoy comfort food at its finest. Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner or just want something quick for lunch, there’s no better choice than a bowl of this richly flavored tomato basil soup.