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Tomato Basil Soup

Yields4 ServingsPrep Time10 minsCook Time35 minsTotal Time45 mins

Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting, velvety classic with a rich, tangy flavor from ripe tomatoes and the aromatic sweetness of fresh basil. A drizzle of cream adds a luxurious finish, making it perfect for pairing with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Tomato Basil Soup

For the Soup
 2 tbsp olive oil
 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
 3 cloves garlic (minced)
 1 kg ripe tomatoes (chopped, or 1 large can of whole peeled tomatoes, 28 oz)
 1 tbsp tomato paste
 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth for extra depth)
 ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for richness)
 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
 ½ tsp salt
 ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
 ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
 ½ cup fresh basil leaves (plus extra for garnish)
Optional Garnishes
 Drizzle of cream
 Fresh basil leaves
 Cracked black pepper
 Parmesan cheese (grated)
Sauté the Aromatics
1

 

  1. Heat the Olive Oil:
    • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Cook the Onion:
    • Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
  3. Add the Garlic:
    • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Cook the Tomatoes
2

 

  1. Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste:
    • Stir in the chopped tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) and tomato paste. Cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the tomatoes to break down.
  2. Season and Simmer:
    • Add the vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Blend the Soup
3

 

  1. Add Fresh Basil:
    • Stir the basil leaves into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  2. Blend Until Smooth:
    • Use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or transfer the soup in batches to a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
    • Return the soup to the pot if needed.
Add Cream (Optional)
4

 

  1. Incorporate the Cream:
    • Stir in the heavy cream for a richer, velvety texture. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or sugar as needed.
Serving Suggestions
5

 

  • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of cream, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper or Parmesan.
  • Pair with a crusty baguette or a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.
Pro Tips
6

 

  • Fresh vs. Canned Tomatoes: Use fresh, ripe tomatoes in season for the best flavor, or opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for convenience.
  • Make Ahead: The soup can be made ahead of time and reheated. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Skip the cream or replace it with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

Nutrition Facts

0 servings

Serving size