Save to Pinterest Warm your soul with a bowl of homemade Tomato and Basil Soup. This Italian classic is the epitome of comfort, blending the bright sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the earthy aroma of fresh basil. Velvety smooth and incredibly easy to prepare, it transforms simple pantry staples into a restaurant-quality meal that is both healthy and satisfying. Perfect for chilly afternoons or a light dinner, this soup is a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors.
Save to Pinterest Creating this soup is a sensory experience. As the onions and garlic soften in golden olive oil, the kitchen fills with a savory fragrance that sets the stage for the main stars: the tomatoes and basil. The addition of a touch of vegetable broth and a simmer allows the flavors to meld perfectly before everything is blended into a smooth, luxurious purée. Finishing the dish with a splash of cream and a garnish of fresh basil turns a simple soup into an elegant masterpiece.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1.5 kg ripe tomatoes (roughly chopped), 1 medium yellow onion (diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Liquids: 750 ml (3 cups) vegetable broth, 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- Herbs & Seasoning: 1 small bunch fresh basil leaves (plus extra for garnish), 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity), salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Garnish: 60 ml (1/4 cup) heavy cream or plant-based cream (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Sauté the Base
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Step 2: Add Aromatics
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Cook Tomatoes
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes start to break down.
- Step 4: Simmer
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add sugar if desired. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.
- Step 5: Blend
- Remove from heat. Add fresh basil leaves. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until silky smooth (or blend in batches in a countertop blender).
- Step 6: Finish
- Taste and season with salt and pepper. For extra richness, stir in heavy cream if using.
- Step 7: Serve
- Ladle soup into bowls, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the smoothest results, an immersion blender is the easiest tool to use right in the pot. If using a countertop blender, be careful to let the steam escape and blend in small batches. Always use the freshest basil possible, as dried herbs won't provide the same bright, floral note that defines this soup.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To enhance the depth of flavor, you can roast the tomatoes in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 30 minutes before starting the recipe. If you prefer a vegan version, simply omit the cream or substitute it with a high-quality plant-based cream alternative like coconut or oat cream.
Serviervorschläge
This soup is a natural partner for crusty artisan bread or a thick, buttery grilled cheese sandwich. You can also serve it as an elegant appetizer for a larger Italian-inspired dinner party, garnished with a few toasted pine nuts for added crunch.
Save to Pinterest With its vibrant color and timeless taste, this Tomato and Basil Soup is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. It's a versatile recipe that stays in your rotation throughout the seasons, offering a nutritious and flavorful escape in every spoonful. Serve it hot and enjoy the perfect harmony of garden-fresh tomatoes and aromatic basil.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes work wonderfully. Use two 28-ounce cans of whole peeled or crushed tomatoes. They're already cooked down, which can reduce simmering time by about 5-10 minutes.
- → How do I store leftover soup?
Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight. Reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. If you added cream, note that the texture may change slightly upon reheating—stir well to restore smoothness.
- → What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread, garlic bread, or grilled cheese sandwiches are classic companions. For a lighter option, serve with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
- → How can I make this soup more filling?
Add a handful of small pasta shapes like orzo or shells during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, serve with protein-packed sides or add white beans for extra heartiness.
- → Is roasting the tomatoes worth the extra time?
Roasting intensifies the tomato flavor and adds subtle caramelized sweetness. It's especially rewarding in summer when tomatoes are abundant, but the stovetop method still delivers excellent results.