Tomato Basil Soup
Warm up with a bowl of tomato basil soup, a classic that never goes out of style. This creamy and vibrant soup is made from fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect as a starter or a comforting main dish, it’s easy to prepare and can be enjoyed year-round. Let’s dive into the recipe that brings this delightful dish to life.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or canned)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
– ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Protein: 3g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fat: 7g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they start to soften.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
7. Stir in fresh basil leaves and season with salt, pepper, and sugar.
8. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
9. For a creamier texture, stir in heavy cream if desired.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh tomatoes with canned ones for convenience. For a vegan option, omit the heavy cream or replace it with coconut milk for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
This tomato basil soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh salad. Enjoy it as a starter or a light meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip sautéing the onions and garlic; it enhances flavor.
– Avoid overcooking the tomatoes; they should remain fresh-tasting.
– Be cautious with salt; always taste before adding more.
– Don’t blend the soup too long to prevent it from becoming too watery.
– Remember to adjust seasoning at the end for best results.
Helpful Tips
– Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
– Fresh basil should be added towards the end of cooking.
– For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika.
– For a thicker soup, blend less or add a potato during cooking.
– Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Tomato basil soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors may deepen over time, making it even more delicious.
Is this soup vegan?
To make this soup vegan, simply omit the heavy cream or substitute it with a plant-based cream alternative like coconut milk.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried basil in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a dash of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Fresh lemon juice can also brighten the flavors.
How do I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend in a cooked potato or reduce the amount of broth used during cooking.
Conclusion
Tomato basil soup is a comforting and versatile dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite sides, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and savor each delightful spoonful!
Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 4 cups fresh tomatoes chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar optional
- ½ cup heavy cream optional
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they start to soften.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Stir in fresh basil leaves and season with salt, pepper, and sugar.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- For a creamier texture, stir in heavy cream if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.