Cozy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe You’ll Love
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up your soul with this Cozy Tomato Basil Soup recipe that combines rich, velvety tomatoes with the fresh flavor of basil. Perfectly seasoned and incredibly easy to make, this comforting dish is ideal for chilly evenings or a quick lunch. Serve it alongside your favorite crusty bread for a delightful experience that's sure to please your palate.
There's something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of tomato soup, especially on a chilly evening. With a few simple ingredients, this cozy tomato basil soup is not only easy to make but also delivers a robust flavor that warms your heart.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're looking for a cozy meal to share with loved ones or a quick lunch to warm you up during a busy week, this Tomato Basil Soup is the answer. Its creamy texture and bold flavors come together beautifully, making it a versatile dish that complements all seasons. Pair it with a salad or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal that delights the senses.
Not only is this soup comforting and delicious, but it also looks stunning. The vibrant red of the tomatoes combined with the bright green of fresh basil creates an inviting presentation that will impress your guests. Serve it at your next dinner party, and watch as everyone comes back for seconds!
Health Benefits of Tomato Basil Soup
Tomato Basil Soup is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutritional benefits. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to heart health and reduced cancer risk. Along with being a great source of vitamins A and C, tomatoes help support a healthy immune system, especially during the colder months.
Basil adds a unique, aromatic flavor, but it also offers health benefits. It's known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a great addition to this soup. This recipe manages to blend taste and nutrition seamlessly, allowing you to indulge guilt-free while nourishing your body.
Easy Variations to Try
While this Cozy Tomato Basil Soup is perfect as is, there are plenty of ways to put your spin on it. Add roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat. For a heartier version, consider adding pasta or quinoa, which will provide extra texture and satisfy your hunger more completely.
If you're looking to make it a bit more indulgent, toss in some cheese! A sprinkle of parmesan or a dollop of ricotta on top can elevate this already-comforting dish even more. Get creative with your toppings—crispy croutons, a drizzle of olive oil, or even fresh herbs can enhance the overall experience.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to get started:
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (14 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cream for garnish
Make sure to have these items ready before you begin cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your cozy tomato basil soup:
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Add the chopped basil leaves and use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer it to a blender in batches.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, and if desired, add a swirl of cream on top for added richness.
Enjoy your delicious homemade soup!
Tips for the Best Soup
For a rich and creamy texture, consider blending your soup on high speed for a minute or two to incorporate more air. If you prefer a chunkier soup, reserve some diced tomatoes before blending and add them back in after pureeing. Just remember to adjust your seasoning after blending, as tasting is key!
Always use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice, as they are sweeter and less acidic than standard varieties, giving your soup a richer taste. Fresh basil should be added towards the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant flavor and color.
Storage and Reheating
This Tomato Basil Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain its freshness. You can also freeze portions of the soup for up to three months. Just be sure to leave some space at the top of your container, as liquids expand when frozen.
When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup seems too thick after reheating, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Enjoy this comforting soup anytime you need a cozy pick-me-up!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Just store it in an airtight container and it should last for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This tomato basil soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh salad.
Cozy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe You’ll Love
Warm up your soul with this Cozy Tomato Basil Soup recipe that combines rich, velvety tomatoes with the fresh flavor of basil. Perfectly seasoned and incredibly easy to make, this comforting dish is ideal for chilly evenings or a quick lunch. Serve it alongside your favorite crusty bread for a delightful experience that's sure to please your palate.
Created by: Rosie Mitchell
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (14 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cream for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes.
Add the chopped basil leaves and use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer it to a blender in batches.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, and if desired, add a swirl of cream on top for added richness.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 4g