Sharing is caring!

Indulge in the comforting flavors of homemade tomato basil soup with this delightful recipe featuring fresh, wholesome ingredients. Made with vibrant tomatoes on the vine, fragrant basil leaves, and aromatic garlic, this soup is a celebration of seasonal produce at its finest. With just a few simple pantry staples like olive oil, onion, and vegetable stock, you can transform these humble ingredients into a bowl of warmth and nourishment that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, this tomato basil soup recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. Join us as we explore the step-by-step process of creating this classic favorite, optimized with expert SEO techniques to ensure you’re armed with all the knowledge you need to make the perfect pot of soup every time.

The heart of this tomato basil soup lies in the careful selection of ingredients, each chosen to impart a depth of flavor that transforms a simple bowl of soup into a culinary masterpiece. Ten succulent tomatoes on the vine, cut into quarters, form the base, offering a burst of juicy sweetness with every spoonful. Infused with the richness of extra virgin olive oil, the tomatoes are complemented by the earthy essence of garlic and the aromatic allure of fresh thyme, creating a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate. The addition of butter, onion, and tomato paste brings a luscious texture and savory undertones, while a splash of balsamic vinegar elevates the soup with a subtle tang. Rounded out by the warmth of vegetable stock and the fragrant freshness of basil leaves, this recipe promises a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving the comforting embrace of this tomato basil soup time and time again.

Tomato Basil soup

I am not going to lie, by the end of summer, I am usually so excited, probably because I will finally be able to enjoy a bowl of tomato basil soup made from my end of season tomatoes from the garden. There is nothing better than a nice bowl of soup as it starts to cool off in the fall. 

If you have yet to make homemade tomato basil soup you are going to fall in love with this recipe. 

It is thick and creamy and has the perfect blend of tomato and basil as it welcomes other flavors that complement it perfectly thanks to the other seasonings. 

We usually pair this with a delicious Air Fryer grilled cheese and a slice of potato bread made in the bread machine for the perfect dinner that everyone always enjoys. 

What You Will Love About Tomato Basil Soup

There are numerous reasons to love tomato basil soup! Here are some of the highlights:

1. Rich Flavor: This soup bursts with the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes, enhanced by the aromatic freshness of basil. The combination of these two classic ingredients creates a depth of flavor that is both comforting and satisfying.
2. Comforting and Nourishing: Tomato basil soup is the epitome of comfort food. With its smooth texture and warming qualities, it provides a sense of coziness and nourishment that soothes the soul, especially on chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
3. Versatility: Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a starter for a dinner party, or a comforting meal on its own, tomato basil soup is incredibly versatile. It pairs well with a variety of accompaniments, from crusty bread to grilled cheese sandwiches, making it suitable for any occasion.
4. Ease of Preparation: With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep work, tomato basil soup is easy to make at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you can whip up a batch of this delicious soup with confidence.
5. Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and other essential nutrients, tomato basil soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while basil adds vitamins K and A, along with anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Homemade Goodness: There’s something special about homemade tomato basil soup that sets it apart from store-bought versions. By making it yourself, you have full control over the ingredients and can adjust the flavor to suit your taste preferences.
7. Emotional Connection: For many people, tomato basil soup holds nostalgic memories of homemade meals, family gatherings, or cozy evenings by the fire. It evokes a sense of comfort and contentment that transcends mere sustenance, making it a beloved favorite for all ages.

In summary, tomato basil soup is a timeless classic that offers a perfect balance of flavor, comfort, and nourishment. Its simple yet satisfying qualities make it a beloved staple in kitchens around the world, sure to warm both body and soul with every spoonful.

How to Make Tomato Basil Soup

• Preheat the oven to 350 F.
• In a baking dish add the cut tomatoes, salt, pepper, extra virgin olive oil, 3 garlic cloves, and thyme. Bake for 35 minutes. 

• Add the butter and onion to a large pot over medium heat. Saute for 6 minutes or until the onion is translucent.

• Add the tomato paste to the pot and stir for 2 minutes. 

• Add the balsamic vinegar to the pot and stir for 1 minute. 
• Remove the baking dish from the oven and carefully place the tomatoes, garlic, and 3 sprigs of thyme into the large pot. Discard the other sprigs of thyme. 

• Add 2.5 cups of vegetable stock and basil to the large pot. 

• Cover and simmer on medium heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. 
• Turn off the heat and remove the thyme sprigs. 
• Carefully puree until smooth and serve immediately.

Tips & Tricks For Making Tomato Basil Soup

Mastering the art of tomato basil soup requires attention to detail and a few clever techniques to enhance flavor and texture. Here are some tips and tricks to elevate your soup-making game:

1. Choose Ripe Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best results. Look for tomatoes that are firm and heavy for their size, with vibrant color and a slight give when gently squeezed.
2. Roast the Tomatoes: Roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the soup intensifies their sweetness and depth of flavor. Toss quartered tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic cloves, then roast in the oven until caramelized and tender.
3. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme and basil add brightness and aroma to the soup. Add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their fresh flavor and fragrance.
4. Sauté the Aromatics: Sautéing onion and garlic in butter or olive oil before adding the tomatoes builds a flavorful base for the soup. Cook them until soft and translucent to release their natural sweetness.
5. Add Depth with Tomato Paste: Tomato paste is a concentrated source of tomato flavor and adds depth and richness to the soup. Sauté it with the onions and garlic to enhance its flavor before adding the roasted tomatoes.
6. Balance with Acid: A splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and adds complexity to the soup. Add it towards the end of cooking and adjust to taste.
7. Blend for Smoothness: For a velvety smooth texture, use an immersion blender or countertop blender to puree the soup until silky and smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve for an ultra-smooth finish, if desired.
8. Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, thin it out with vegetable stock or water until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, simmer the soup longer to reduce and thicken it if it’s too thin.
9. Season Thoughtfully: Taste the soup as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Remember that flavors will intensify as the soup simmers, so start with less salt and pepper and add more as needed.
10. Garnish for Visual Appeal: Finish the soup with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil, and a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for a touch of freshness and visual appeal.

With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to creating a tomato basil soup that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

FAQ’s For Making Tomato Basil Soup

1. What type of tomatoes should I use for tomato basil soup?
   • You can use any ripe and flavorful tomatoes for tomato basil soup. Roma, vine-ripened, or heirloom tomatoes are popular choices. If fresh tomatoes are not available, canned tomatoes can be used as a convenient alternative.
2. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh basil and thyme?
   • While fresh herbs offer the best flavor, you can substitute dried basil and thyme if needed. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs called for in the recipe. Add them earlier in the cooking process to allow their flavors to infuse the soup.
3. How can I make tomato basil soup thicker or thinner?
   • To thicken the soup, simmer it uncovered for longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also blend a portion of the soup to create a thicker consistency. If the soup is too thick, simply add more vegetable stock or water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Can I freeze tomato basil soup?
   • Yes, tomato basil soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion. Frozen soup can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
5. How long will tomato basil soup keep in the refrigerator?
   • Tomato basil soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat individual portions on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
6. Can I make tomato basil soup in advance?
   • Yes, tomato basil soup can be made in advance and reheated when ready to serve. In fact, the flavors often develop even more when the soup is allowed to sit for a day or two in the refrigerator. Simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
7. What can I serve with tomato basil soup?
   • Tomato basil soup pairs well with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a simple green salad. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added flavor and texture.

These FAQs should help address common questions about making tomato basil soup, ensuring a delicious and stress-free cooking experience!

Reheating

To reheat your soup, place it in the microwave for 30-second intervals stirring in between until it is your desired temperature. 

You can also warm it back up in a saucepan on medium-low heat until warm. 

• How To Grow, Harvest & Preserve Basil
• Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup
• Bruschetta Recipe
• Tomato Pie
• Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Soup
• Utica Tomato Pie

Sharing is caring!