**Prep time:** 5 minutes
**Cook time:** 15 minutes
**Total time:** 20 minutes
**Servings:** 4
There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of **tomato basil soup**. It evokes memories of chilly evenings spent cuddled up on the couch, enjoying a meal that’s both delicious and nourishing. Whether you’re battling the winter blues or simply craving a hearty soup, this 20-Minute Tomato Basil Soup is your go-to recipe. It’s not just quick and easy; it’s packed with fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it ideal for busy parents or anyone looking to whip up a delightful meal in no time.
In this recipe, you will learn how to create a velvety, flavorful soup that highlights the essence of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil. From the ingredients needed to step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make this dish a household favorite.
What Is Tomato Basil Soup?
Tomato basil soup is a creamy, flavorful soup made primarily from ripe tomatoes and fresh basil. Originating from Italy, it embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, emphasizing simple, high-quality ingredients. The recipe may vary from region to region, but the core concept remains the same—celebrating the rich flavor of tomatoes complemented by the aromatic notes of basil.
The texture of this soup can range from chunky to smooth, depending on your preference. In this recipe, we’ll opt for a velvety-smooth consistency that’s luxurious and comforting. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a balanced soup that can be served as an appetizer, main course, or paired with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic touch.
The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility. Whether you’re using canned tomatoes or fresh ones, you can always adapt the recipe to suit your preferences and the season’s bounty.
Why You’ll Love This Tomato Basil Soup
1. **Fast and Easy**: This recipe can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute meals. You can impress your guests with a delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. **Affordable Ingredients**: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making it a budget-friendly option. You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy a bowl of gourmet soup.
3. **Health Benefits**: Tomatoes are packed with nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant known for its health benefits. Basil also provides essential oils with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. This soup is not just tasty but also offers nutritional value.
4. **Versatile**: You can customize this soup according to your dietary preferences. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or looking to add protein, this recipe is flexible enough to accommodate all tastes.
5. **Freezes Well**: If you are meal prepping or want to save some for later, this soup freezes beautifully. Just store it in airtight containers, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready for any time of the week.
The idea that tomato basil soup should be complex may often be a misconception. In reality, with the right ingredients and patience, you can achieve a luscious soup without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– **2 tablespoons of olive oil**: This will be used to sauté the onions and garlic, imparting a rich flavor to the soup.
– **1 medium onion, diced**: Onions form the base of this soup, adding sweetness and depth to the overall flavor profile.
– **2 cloves of garlic, minced**: Garlic complements the tomatoes beautifully, lending an aromatic quality to the dish.
– **4 cups of vegetable broth**: This serves as the soup’s liquid base. Use low-sodium broth if you prefer to control the salt content.
– **1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes**: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes with no added sugar or preservatives for the best flavor.
– **1 cup of fresh basil leaves, packed**: Fresh basil is essential for the herbaceous notes that elevate the soup.
– **Salt and pepper to taste**: Simple seasonings that are crucial for enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.
– **1 tablespoon of sugar (optional)**: This helps to cut the acidity of the tomatoes but is not always necessary.
These ingredients work together to create a well-balanced, comforting soup that’s ready in a flash.
How to Make Tomato Basil Soup
1. **Heat the Oil**: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. This will create the foundation for your soup. Once the oil is shimmering but not smoking, it’s time to introduce the aromatic ingredients.
2. **Sauté the Aromatics**: Add the diced onions to the pan. Stir them occasionally, allowing them to cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are translucent and soft. Next, add the minced garlic, continuing to sauté for another minute. You’ll begin to smell the fragrant aroma as the garlic browns slightly — be careful not to burn it as that will give an unpleasant bitterness to your soup.
3. **Add the Tomatoes**: Once the onions and garlic are nicely softened, it’s time to pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir everything together, letting the tomatoes mingle with the softened aromatics. After about 2 minutes, add the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.
4. **Simmer the Soup**: Allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and the soup to become rich. You might notice a lovely bubbling sound as it cooks — this is a good sign that magic is happening in the pot!
5. **Blend the Soup**: After simmering, remove the saucepan from heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you could also blend the soup in batches using a traditional blender. Be cautious about blending hot liquids, and let the soup cool for a few minutes to avoid splatters.
6. **Stir in the Basil**: After blending, return the soup to low heat. Tear the fresh basil leaves and add them to the soup. Stir well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. This step infuses the soup with a burst of freshness from the basil.
7. **Season to Taste**: Season with salt, pepper, and, if necessary, a touch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Give it one last stir, and you’re ready to serve.
8. **Serve and Enjoy**: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired. Pair it with crusty bread or grilled cheese for a complete meal.
5 Variations & Substitutions
1. **Creamy Tomato Basil Soup**: If you desire a richer flavor and creaminess, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking. This will enhance the texture and create a luxurious mouthfeel, making it perfect for a special occasion or to impress guests.
2. **Spicy Tomato Basil Soup**: For those who enjoy a kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers when sautéing the onions and garlic. The heat will beautifully complement the tomatoes, giving your soup an exciting flavor profile.
3. **Roasted Tomato Basil Soup**: Roast your tomatoes ahead of time to deepen their natural sweetness. Cut fresh tomatoes in half, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle some salt and pepper, and roast them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-30 minutes. Blend these roasted tomatoes into the soup for a smoky and rich flavor.
4. **Pasta Tomato Basil Soup**: Turn your soup into a heartier meal by adding cooked small pasta, such as ditalini or elbow macaroni. It’s a great way to stretch the soup into a filling dish, especially for families or larger servings.
5. **Dairy-Free Tomato Basil Soup**: Simply omit any cream or dairy products from the recipe and add a splash of vegetable or cashew milk to give it a creamy texture without the dairy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One major mistake people often make is overcooking the garlic. **Garlic can easily turn bitter if it’s cooked too long,** so always add it to the pan after the onions have cooked down a bit. Keep an eye on it, allowing it to become fragrant, but don’t let it brown excessively.
Another common error is neglecting to season the soup properly. Often, people add no salt until the end, which can yield a bland result. **Adding salt in stages as you cook** helps to develop layers of flavor throughout the dish.
Make sure not to skip on using quality tomatoes. Opt for **canned tomatoes that are vine-ripened** or choose fresh ones when they’re in season. This ensures the best flavor for your soup.
Lastly, remember to let the soup simmer adequately. Rushing this step might leave the flavors underdeveloped. Give it the time it needs for all the ingredients to meld beautifully.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Once you’ve created a delicious batch of tomato basil soup, you’ll want to store it properly to maintain its quality. Allow the soup to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
If you want to freeze the soup, consider portioning it out into individual containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, it’s best to let the soup thaw in the fridge overnight. You can then gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until it’s warmed through.
When reheating, you might want to add a splash of extra broth or water to achieve the desired consistency, especially if it thickens during storage. Always taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary after reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
**Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?**
Yes, absolutely! If using fresh tomatoes, you’ll need about 3-4 large ripe tomatoes. To peel them easily, blanch them in boiling water for about a minute, transfer them to an ice bath, and then the skins will slide off effortlessly. Chop them, and use the same way as canned tomatoes in the recipe.
**Can I make this soup vegan?**
This soup is naturally vegan, as it doesn’t contain any animal products. If you’re using cream for a creamy version, simply substitute it with a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream.
**How can I make this soup thicker?**
If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend the soup longer until it reaches your desired creaminess. Alternatively, you can add a spoonful of tomato paste when simmering for added thickness.
**Does the soup freeze well?**
Yes! Tomato basil soup freezes very well. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. **Avoid placing hot soup directly in the freezer** as it can lead to a partially thawed mess.
**Can I add other vegetables to the soup?**
Certainly! Feel free to add in veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini when sautéing the onions. Just chop them small enough so they cook through within the 15 minutes.
Conclusion
This 20-Minute Tomato Basil Soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. With its vibrant flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a recipe everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining friends, or just indulging in a personal cozy evening at home, this soup is versatile enough to fit all occasions.
So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and experience the sensational taste of homemade tomato basil soup. Remember to share any variations you try or tips that work for you—everyone can use a little inspiration in the kitchen! Get ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of warmth that is both simple and satisfying. Happy cooking!
