Tomato Basil Soup

Warm Up Your Winter With Soup!

As the chill of winter sets in, nothing warms the body and soul quite like a steaming bowl of Tomato Basil Soup. This classic dish combines the tangy sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the aromatic freshness of basil, creating a comforting meal that’s both hearty and simple to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a sophisticated starter for a dinner party, this recipe has you covered.

Why Tomato Basil Soup is Perfect for Winter

Winter is the season for hearty, warming dishes, and tomato basil soup fits the bill. Tomatoes provide a bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of many winter meals, while fresh basil reminds us of summer’s bounty. Pair it with crusty bread, a grilled cheese sandwich, or even a dollop of cream, and you’ve got a versatile meal to beat the winter blues.

Tomato Basil Soup

Prep Time: 10 min

Cook Time: 30 min

Ingredients

This recipe serves 4 and can be easily doubled for a larger crowd.

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 (14-ounce) cans of whole peeled tomatoes
  • 1 cup vegetable or chicken stock
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional)

Preparation

  1. Sauté Aromatics
    Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, taking care not to let it burn.
  2. Add Tomatoes and Stock
    Pour the canned tomatoes (with their juices) into the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break up the tomatoes into smaller pieces. Add the stock, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  3. Simmer
    Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Blend the Soup
    Remove the pot from heat. Add the fresh basil leaves. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender, blending until smooth.
  5. Finish with Cream
    If desired, stir in the heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a velvety texture. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Serve
    Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with a few basil leaves, and drizzle with olive oil or a swirl of cream for a restaurant-quality finish.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair it with Bread: Serve alongside a warm, crusty baguette or a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort combo.
  • Top It Off: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, croutons, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for added flavor.
  • Store Leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the fresh basil flavor.

Tips for Success

  • Use Quality Tomatoes: The flavor of your soup depends on the quality of tomatoes you use. San Marzano tomatoes are an excellent choice for their sweetness and low acidity.
  • Balance Acidity: If the soup tastes too tangy, a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of cream can help round out the flavors.
  • Customize Your Soup: Add a pinch of dried oregano, a splash of balsamic vinegar, or roasted red peppers for a unique twist.

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