Save on Pinterest A steaming bowl of homemade Tomato and Basil Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a silky, vibrant texture that warms the soul. This recipe captures the essence of sun-ripened tomatoes and aromatic fresh basil, creating a simple yet elegant dish that is perfect as a light lunch or a comforting appetizer.
Save on Pinterest Whether you are looking for a quick meal or a way to use up a harvest of tomatoes, this Italian-inspired soup brings the flavors of a summer garden directly to your table.
Ingredients
- Vegetables
- 1.5 kg ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Liquids
- 700 ml vegetable stock
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Herbs & Seasoning
- 1 small bunch fresh basil, leaves picked
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Garnish
- Extra basil leaves
- Additional olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Step 2
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring to avoid browning.
- Step 3
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes, until the tomatoes break down and release their juices.
- Step 4
- Add the vegetable stock, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for 15 minutes.
- Step 5
- Add the basil leaves (reserve a few for garnish), then blend the soup using an immersion blender or in batches in a blender until smooth and silky.
- Step 6
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 7
- Serve hot, garnished with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using a high-quality immersion blender is the easiest way to achieve that signature silky texture directly in your large saucepan. For the best flavor, ensure you use a sharp knife and chopping board to mince the garlic and onions finely, allowing them to soften perfectly during the initial cook.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To transform this into a creamier soup, stir in 100 ml of heavy cream or coconut milk before the blending stage. For a strictly vegan version, simply verify that your vegetable stock is entirely plant-based. You can also adjust the sugar content depending on the natural sweetness of your tomatoes.
Serviervorschläge
This soup is best served warm alongside thick slices of crusty bread for dipping. For a more indulgent meal, pair it with a classic grilled cheese sandwich, which complements the tomato and basil flavors beautifully.
Save on Pinterest Rich in color and deep in flavor, this Tomato and Basil Soup is a testament to the power of fresh, simple ingredients. It is a timeless dish that remains a favorite for anyone seeking a wholesome and delicious meal.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup actually tastes better the next day as flavors have more time to develop. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- → Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Use two 28-ounce cans of whole peeled tomatoes or crushed tomatoes. Canned tomatoes work beautifully and often provide consistent results year-round when fresh tomatoes aren't at their peak.
- → How can I make the soup creamier?
Stir in 100 ml of heavy cream, coconut milk, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt after blending and just before serving. For a dairy-free option, try adding a quarter cup of cashew cream or blending in a cooked potato.
- → What should I serve with tomato basil soup?
Crusty bread, garlic bread, or grilled cheese sandwiches make excellent accompaniments. The soup also pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a complete light meal.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.
- → Do I have to blend the soup?
No, blending is optional. If you prefer a chunky texture, simply skip the blending step. For a partially smooth soup with some texture, blend only half of the mixture and stir it back into the pot.