Tomato Basil Soup is a warm, comforting dish made with ripe tomatoes and fresh basil. It’s smooth, flavorful, and perfect for a quick lunch or cozy dinner.
I love making this soup on chilly days. It makes the kitchen smell so good, and I always tell my family it’s homemade magic!
To keep it quick, I blend the soup until smooth and serve with a crusty piece of bread. It’s easy, tasty, and a little bit healthy too!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. I prefer canned crushed tomatoes when fresh aren’t in season—they’re convenient and consistent. If fresh tomatoes are available, peel and chop them for a richer taste.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a bright, herbaceous note. I love adding it at the end for maximum flavor. Dried basil works as a substitute but is less vibrant—reduce the amount slightly, about a third.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the soup a punch of flavor. I always mince it finely to avoid bites of raw garlic. If fresh isn’t available, garlic powder can work—use about half the amount.
Onion: Yellow onion adds sweetness and depth. Sautéing it until translucent releases its flavor fully. For a milder taste, you can swap with shallots, which are sweeter.
Olive Oil: Good-quality olive oil helps sauté and adds richness. I prefer extra virgin for the best flavor. Light vegetable oil can be a neutral substitute if needed.
How do I blend the soup smoothly without getting splashes?
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend hot soup safely. Keep the blender submerged, and move it around until smooth. If using a regular blender, blend in batches and vent the lid to prevent splatters.
- Wait until the soup has cooled slightly if blending in a regular blender.
- Fill the blender only halfway to avoid overflow.
- Hold the lid firmly, and blend in short bursts for safety.
How to Make Tomato Basil Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients
- 3 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Pantry Items
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes. Cooking: 30 minutes. Total: approximately 40 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the onions and garlic
Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 5 minutes until soft and fragrant.
2. Add the tomatoes and broth
Stir in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.
3. Blend the soup
Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender. Puree until smooth. Be careful blending hot liquid.
4. Add basil and seasonings
Stir in chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes to add flavor.
5. Finish with cream (optional)
If desired, stir in heavy cream or milk. Heat briefly but do not boil. Serve hot.
