Simple and Delicious Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Tomato basil soup is a comforting and delicious dish that can be enjoyed as both a warm starter or a satisfying meal on its own. This popular recipe is a staple in many households due to its simplicity and versatility. Whether you're looking for something quick to whip up after work or want to impress your family with homemade goodness, tomato basil soup fits the bill perfectly.

For this recipe, we'll be making a classic version of tomato basil soup that is rich in flavor yet easy on your time. The cooking process takes approximately 20 minutes and serves 4 hearty portions. Let's dive right into the ingredients you will need:

• 3 medium-sized tomatoes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil (you can also use fresh)
• 6 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A handful of fresh parsley for garnishing

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it's warm, add the chopped onions along with minced garlic; sauté until they are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the finely diced tomatoes to the mix and stir gently so as not to break them too much. Allow this mixture to cook for another few minutes until some of the tomato juices start coming out. You may want to crush the tomatoes lightly with a potato masher or your hands at this stage, if preferred.

Once the tomatoes are cooked down somewhat, sprinkle in the dried basil (or fresh leaves), and pour in the broth. Stir everything together well before bringing it all to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat slightly but continue simmering for about 15 minutes or so, allowing the flavors to meld nicely while ensuring that the soup doesn’t overcook.

Use an immersion blender or carefully transfer half of the mixture back into your pot and blend until smooth. Return everything to the pot and let it warm through again without boiling too much further as you want to preserve some texture in the soup.

Taste for seasoning, adding salt and pepper according to personal preference. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.

Optional Enhancements

If desired, you could add some extra vegetables like carrots or zucchini during the initial sautéing stage which would enhance the nutritional profile while also increasing flavor complexity. For a creamier texture without dairy options available, consider using coconut milk instead of water when blending your soup.

Storage and Reheating

This homemade tomato basil soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for longer periods. To reheat individual portions quickly, simply microwave them on low heat until heated through; stir occasionally during this process since microwaves can dry out foods easily.

Tomato basil soup is more than just another meal option; it represents a delightful balance of simplicity and sophistication that every kitchen should have in its repertoire. Its adaptability makes it suitable for various occasions ranging from casual weeknight dinners to elegant brunches. Enjoy creating this tasty dish whenever you desire comfort food or simply want to enjoy a well-loved classic with fresh ingredients!