Tomato and Basil Soup

Experience the ultimate comfort of a home-cooked classic with this velvety tomato and basil soup. This Italian-inspired dish brings together the natural sweetness of ripe, simmered tomatoes with the aromatic fragrance of fresh basil, creating a smooth and vibrant starter that warms the soul and delights the palate.

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Perfect for a quick lunch or an elegant dinner party, this recipe focuses on using high-quality ingredients to deliver a rich, restaurant-style flavor with minimal effort. The addition of extra virgin olive oil adds a luxurious finish that ties the whole dish together.

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), salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Garnish: 60 ml (1/4 cup) heavy cream or plant-based cream (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 2

Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Add chopped tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes start to break down.

Step 4

Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add sugar if desired. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.

Step 5

Remove from heat and add basil leaves. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until silky smooth (or blend in batches in a countertop blender).

Step 6

Taste and season with salt and pepper. For extra richness, stir in heavy cream if using.

Step 7

Ladle soup into bowls, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For a richer and more concentrated flavor, roast the tomatoes in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 30 minutes before adding them to the pot. This step adds a wonderful depth to the finished soup.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make this soup entirely vegan, use a plant-based cream or simply omit the cream altogether; the blended tomatoes provide a naturally creamy texture even without dairy.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this comforting bowl with a side of crusty artisan bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich for the perfect dipping experience.

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Whether you're looking for a cozy meal on a cold day or a healthy light dinner, this tomato and basil soup is a timeless recipe that brings the authentic taste of Italy straight to your kitchen. Enjoy every flavorful spoonful!

Recipe FAQ Section

→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned tomatoes work wonderfully. Use whole peeled or crushed tomatoes, about 2-3 cans (28 oz each). The flavor remains excellent and prep time decreases significantly.

→ How long does this soup keep in the refrigerator?

Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. The flavors actually develop and improve after a day. Reheat gently on the stovetetop, adding a splash of broth or water if thickened.

→ Can I freeze this tomato basil soup?

Absolutely. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Leave some headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ What's the best way to achieve the smoothest texture?

An immersion blender allows for easy puréeing directly in the pot. For ultra-smooth results, pass the blended soup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining pulp or seeds. This extra step creates restaurant-quality silkiness.

→ Is cream necessary for this soup?

Not at all. The soup is deliciously creamy without any dairy. The tomatoes naturally thicken when blended. Cream adds richness and luxury but remains entirely optional. For a vegan version, omit entirely or use coconut cream.

→ What pairs well with tomato basil soup?

Crusty bread, garlic bread, or grilled cheese sandwiches are classic choices. A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness. For a lighter meal, serve with roasted vegetables or a protein source.