Who doesn’t love a steaming bowl of Tomato Basil Soup?
It’s the ultimate comfort food and a go-to on chilly days, a popular starter in restaurants, and a nostalgic favorite that reminds many of us of childhood lunches and cozy family dinners.
Get ready to impress your taste buds and your guests with this irresistible tomato basil soup!
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Tomato Basil Soup
The secret to an outstanding tomato basil soup lies in the quality of its ingredients. Here’s what you need to know:
- Tomatoes: Ripe, juicy tomatoes are the star of the show. Roma or plum tomatoes work great, but don’t shy away from using canned San Marzano tomatoes for consistently good results.
- Basil: Fresh is best! The vibrant flavor of fresh basil leaves can’t be beaten. If you must use dried basil, add it earlier in the cooking process to allow the flavors to develop.
- Onions and Garlic: These aromatics form the flavor base of the soup.
- Broth: Vegetable or chicken broth adds depth to the soup.
- Cream (optional): For a richer soup, a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half works wonders.
- Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
Nutritional Benefits of Tomato Basil Soup
Not only is tomato basil soup delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients!
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer.
They’re also a great source of vitamins C and K.
Basil brings its own set of benefits to the table. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is a good source of vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health.
Overall, tomato basil soup is a relatively low-calorie dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
It’s a great way to warm up and nourish your body, especially during the colder months.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Tomato basil soup is delicious on its own, but it really shines when paired with the right accompaniments. Here are some ideas:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The ultimate classic pairing. The crispy, gooey sandwich is perfect for dunking!
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty baguette or sourdough bread is ideal for sopping up every last drop of soup.
- Croutons: Homemade garlic croutons add a delightful crunch.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds a savory depth to the soup.
- Fresh Herbs: A garnish of fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped chives adds color and flavor.
Variations on the Classic Tomato Basil Soup
One of the best things about tomato basil soup is how versatile it is. Here are some variations to try:
- Creamy Version: Add more cream or blend in some softened cream cheese for an extra indulgent soup.
- Roasted Red Pepper: Add a roasted red bell pepper to the mix for a smoky twist.
- Tomato Basil Bisque: Blend in some cooked rice for a thicker, heartier soup.
- Vegan Option: Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Tips for Storing and Reheating Tomato Basil Soup
Made too much soup? No problem! Tomato basil soup stores and reheats beautifully. Here’s how:
- Cooling: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
- Refrigerating: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Pro tip: Freeze without the cream and add it when reheating.
- Thawing: Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick, thin it with a little broth or water.
Recipe FAQ’s
How can I make my soup smoother?
For an ultra-smooth soup, after blending, pass it through a fine-mesh strainer. This will remove any seeds or tough bits of skin.
What can I do if my soup is too acidic?
If your soup is too tangy, try adding a pinch of baking soda. It will neutralize some of the acid. You can also add a bit more sugar or some carrots to balance out the acidity with sweetness.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Carrots, celery, and bell peppers are great additions. Roast them along with the tomatoes for added depth of flavor.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients
- 2 pounds about 900g ripe tomatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic peeled
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil plus extra for drizzling
- 2 cups 480ml vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 large handful fresh basil leaves plus extra for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup 60ml heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Optional additions:
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste for deeper flavor
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- ¼ cup 25g grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Croutons for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut 2 pounds of tomatoes in half, place them on a baking sheet with 4 peeled garlic cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 25-30 minutes.
- In a large pot, sauté 1 diced onion in olive oil until translucent.
- Add the roasted tomatoes and garlic, 2 cups of broth, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add a handful of fresh basil leaves and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in 1/4 cup of cream.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil.