How to Make the Perfect Classic Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato basil soup is a popular and comforting dish that has been enjoyed by many for its rich flavors and simplicity in preparation. This classic tomato basil soup recipe not only brings back fond memories but also offers an opportunity to enjoy delicious homemade soup any time you want.

Ingredients required for making the perfect tomato basil soup are straightforward:

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups of diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 2 tablespoons of fresh basil leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 quart of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• Heavy cream (optional, about half cup) - you can add it at the end just before serving if desired.

The cooking time is approximately 30 minutes and will yield enough soup for four servings. Begin by heating the olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. Then add the minced garlic and stir it into the mixture gently. This step adds a great aroma to the dish.

After about 5 minutes of cooking, start adding the tomatoes. Use a wooden spoon to break them down slightly if you are using fresh tomatoes. Stir in the basil leaves as well. Allow everything to simmer together for another 10-12 minutes until all flavors meld nicely and the soup thickens up somewhat.

Once done, season with salt and pepper according to your preference. For those who like their soups creamier, now is the time to stir in some heavy cream. If you prefer a lighter version without this step, simply skip it or add right before serving.

After letting the soup cool down slightly so that you can handle it comfortably, use an immersion blender (or carefully transfer parts of your mixture into a regular blender) to puree until smooth and creamy. Return all blended soup back into the pot if using an immersion blender, otherwise pour it back in gently.

For serving, ladle the tomato basil soup into individual bowls or mugs for best presentation. Garnish with fresh parsley if available; this provides a nice contrast to the other bright colors of your dish. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side, and enjoy! This homemade version makes an excellent meal when paired with grilled cheese sandwiches or as part of a light dinner.

Tomato basil soup is not just about having great taste but also providing nutritional benefits. It’s packed full of vitamins C and A from tomatoes, which are essential for immune function, skin health, and more. Basil has antioxidants like quercetin and luteolin that help reduce inflammation in your body. Additionally, chicken broth contributes to hydration while providing necessary electrolytes.

Experimenting with variations can make this dish even more enjoyable. For instance, you could add a handful of spinach towards the end when blending for an extra nutritional boost. You might also consider substituting part of the vegetable broth with white wine for added complexity in flavor. Alternatively, try infusing your soup base with fresh rosemary or thyme instead of just basil.

<

p>Tomato basil soup is ideal for those looking for a simple yet satisfying meal option. Whether you're cooking it during cooler fall days when comfort food cravings hit hard, or simply want to have something delicious and comforting around on busy weeknights, this recipe ticks all the right boxes!