why make this recipe
This tomato basil soup tastes fresh and warm. It uses simple ingredients you likely have at home. The soup is quick to make and feels like a homemade meal. If you want a simple dessert after this soup, try a simple carrot cake recipe that goes well with a warm bowl.
introduction
This soup is creamy without cream and bright from fresh basil. You cook onions and garlic, add canned tomatoes and broth, then blend until smooth. It is easy, cozy, and good for weeknights or a light lunch.
how to make Homemade Tomato Basil Soup
Start by heating oil and softening the onion. Add garlic, then pour in tomatoes and broth. Simmer with basil, then blend until smooth. Taste and add salt and pepper.
Ingredients :
- 2 cans whole tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Directions :
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes and vegetable broth, and bring to a simmer.
- Add the fresh basil leaves and season with salt and pepper.
- Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.
how to serve Homemade Tomato Basil Soup
Serve the soup hot in bowls. Add a drizzle of olive oil or a few basil leaves on top. Pair with crusty bread, grilled cheese, or a simple salad. The soup also works well with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
how to store Homemade Tomato Basil Soup
Cool the soup to room temperature before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
tips to make Homemade Tomato Basil Soup
- Use good canned tomatoes for better flavor.
- Do not skip the basil; it gives fresh taste.
- Blend carefully and watch the soup if it is very hot.
- Taste and adjust salt at the end.
- For a smoother texture, strain the soup after blending.
variation (if any)
- Make it creamy: stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk.
- Add spice: add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking.
- Roast tomatoes: roast fresh or canned tomatoes first for a deeper flavor.
- Add vegetables: blend in roasted red peppers or carrots.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes?
A: Yes. Use ripe tomatoes, chop them, and cook a bit longer before blending.
Q: Do I need an immersion blender?
A: No. You can use a regular blender. Blend in batches and be careful with hot liquid.
Q: Can I make this soup vegan?
A: Yes. The basic recipe is already vegan if you skip any cheese garnish.
Q: How long does it take to cook from start to finish?
A: About 30 minutes, including simmer time and blending.
Q: Can I skip the basil?
A: You can, but basil gives the signature fresh flavor. Try adding a small amount of dried basil if fresh is not available.
Homemade Tomato Basil Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A creamy, homemade tomato basil soup that is easy to make and perfect for weeknights or a light lunch.
Ingredients
- 2 cans whole tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes and vegetable broth, and bring to a simmer.
- Add the fresh basil leaves and season with salt and pepper.
- Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Notes
For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk. Pair with crusty bread or grilled cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg