Tomato Basil Soup Simple and Satisfying Recipe

Craving a warm bowl of comfort? My Tomato Basil Soup is simple and satisfying. It warms the soul and excites your taste buds. With just a few fresh ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious meal in no time. From customizing with add-ins to cooking tips, I’ll guide you through every step of the process. Let’s dive in and make this vibrant soup together!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 medium onion, diced

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 carrot, finely diced

- 2 cans (28 ounces each) whole peeled tomatoes (with juices)

- 2 cups vegetable broth

- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)

- Croutons for serving (optional)

Optional Ingredients for Customization

You can change this soup to fit your taste. Try adding:

- Red pepper flakes for heat

- A splash of balsamic vinegar for depth

- Parmesan cheese for a savory kick

- Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for more flavor

Nutrition Information

This soup is not just tasty; it's also good for you. Here’s a quick look at the nutrition per serving (using basic ingredients):

- Calories: Approximately 150

- Protein: 3g

- Carbohydrates: 22g

- Fiber: 4g

- Fat: 7g

- Vitamin A: 45% DV

- Vitamin C: 25% DV

This soup is rich in vitamins and can fit many diets. Enjoy it with a side salad or a piece of bread for a full meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Gather your ingredients. You need olive oil, onion, garlic, carrot, tomatoes, vegetable broth, and basil.

2. Dice the onion and carrot. Mince the garlic. This makes cooking easier.

3. Measure out your ingredients. Have salt, pepper, and sugar ready. This helps with seasoning later.

Cooking Steps

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Add the diced onion. Sauté it for about 5 minutes until it looks clear.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and diced carrot. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they smell great.

4. Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth. Mix it well.

5. If you like, add 1 teaspoon of sugar to balance the tomato's acidity. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Let the soup simmer gently for 20-25 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together.

Blending and Finishing Touches

1. Turn off the heat. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth.

2. If you don’t have an immersion blender, pour the soup into a regular blender in batches. Be careful as it’s hot.

3. Stir in 1 cup of chopped basil and 1/4 cup of heavy cream if you want it creamy.

4. Heat the soup on low for a few more minutes to warm it through.

5. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then serve it hot in warm bowls.

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor

To boost the flavor of your tomato basil soup, consider these tips:

- Fresh herbs: Use fresh basil for a bright taste. Dried herbs can work, but fresh is best.

- Add spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat without overpowering.

- Umami boost: Try adding a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar. It adds depth and richness.

- Roast veggies: Roasting the onion and garlic before adding them can deepen the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your soup can be just as fun as making it. Here are some ideas:

- Warm bowls: Preheat your bowls. This keeps the soup hot longer.

- Garnish: Top with extra basil or a drizzle of olive oil for a fresh look.

- Croutons: Add croutons for a crunchy texture. They make every bite exciting.

- Pair it up: Serve with a grilled cheese sandwich. It’s a classic match!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls to make your soup perfect:

- Overcooking: Don’t let the soup boil too hard. A gentle simmer works best.

- Skipping seasoning: Taste your soup! Adjust salt and pepper as needed for balance.

- Blending too soon: Let the soup cool slightly before blending. This prevents splatters.

- Ignoring freshness: Always use fresh ingredients when possible. They make a big difference.

Variations

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

To make a creamy version of this soup, add heavy cream. This gives the soup a rich, velvety texture. After blending, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream. Warm the soup gently to combine the flavors. You can also use coconut cream for a dairy-free option. The cream will balance the acidity of the tomatoes. This makes each bite smooth and satisfying.

Chunky Tomato Basil Soup

If you love texture, try a chunky version. Start by saving a portion of the tomatoes before blending. After blending the soup, add back the reserved tomatoes. You can also add diced zucchini or bell peppers for extra veggies. This adds a fun twist and makes each spoonful interesting. The chunks give the soup heartiness that fills you up.

Vegan Tomato Basil Soup Option

For a vegan version, skip the heavy cream. Use coconut milk instead for creaminess. You can also add extra veggies, like spinach or kale, for nutrition. Use vegetable broth to ensure it stays plant-based. This option remains flavorful and rich, perfect for anyone who avoids animal products. Your family and friends will love it, too!

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

You can store leftover tomato basil soup in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Before serving, check for any off smells or changes in color. If everything looks good, simply reheat it.

Freezing Tomato Basil Soup

Freezing is a great way to keep your soup longer. Let the soup cool down first. Once cool, pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top for expansion. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, you can use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, pour the soup into a pot and warm it on low heat. Stir often to avoid burning. If using a microwave, place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. Make sure it’s hot throughout before serving.

FAQs

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use whole milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Both add creaminess. If you want a dairy-free option, try coconut milk or cashew cream. These will change the flavor but still taste great.

How long does homemade tomato basil soup last?

Homemade tomato basil soup can last in the fridge for about 4 to 5 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a good option.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes will work well. Just peel and chop them first. You may need to add a bit more broth to reach the desired consistency. Fresh tomatoes give a bright flavor that is delightful.

This blog post covered all you need for making delicious tomato basil soup. We looked at the key ingredients and options for customizing it. I shared steps for preparation, cooking, and blending. You learned tips to enhance flavor and avoid common mistakes. Plus, we explored different soup variations to suit your taste.

Now, you are ready to create your perfect bowl of soup. Enjoy every flavorful spoonful!