Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the rich, sweet taste of ripe tomatoes with the aromatic freshness of basil. This classic soup is often made by simmering tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs, creating a smooth, velvety base. The addition of fresh basil gives it a fragrant, slightly peppery kick that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes. Whether served with a warm grilled cheese sandwich or enjoyed on its own, Tomato Basil Soup is a timeless favorite that’s perfect for cozy meals, especially on chilly days. Its simplicity and depth of flavor make it a go-to dish for both casual and gourmet dining.
Start making your tomato soup today!
Topics:
- How To Make Tomato Soup
- Ingredients
- Cook Time
How To Make Tomato Soup
Making tomato soup is a simple and satisfying process that brings out the natural sweetness and tang of ripe tomatoes. It typically starts with sautéing aromatics like onions and garlic in a bit of oil or butter, which forms a flavorful base. Fresh or canned tomatoes are then added and simmered until soft and well-blended with the other ingredients. After simmering, the mixture is often blended to a smooth consistency and seasoned with herbs such as basil, thyme, or oregano. Some recipes also include cream or broth to enhance the texture and depth of flavor. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, tomato soup is a classic dish that’s easy to customize and hard to mess up.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes or 4–5 ripe fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil or a handful of fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for creaminess)
- Croutons, grated cheese, or fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Cook Time And Instructions
Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir in sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 15–20 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Add Basil and Blend
Stir in the fresh basil leaves. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth (or transfer carefully to a blender in batches).
Add Cream (Optional)
For a creamy version, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Heat gently for another 2–3 minutes—don’t boil.
Serve
Ladle into bowls and serve warm. Great with grilled cheese or crusty bread!
