Homemade Tomato Basil Soup

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of homemade tomato basil soup to warm your soul, especially on a chilly day. This comforting dish marries the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, creating a meal that is both satisfying and nourishing. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make! Grab your apron and prepare to indulge in the aromatic embrace of this classic favorite.

Why Make This Recipe

Experience a comforting hug in a bowl with every spoonful.
It’s a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, main course, or paired with your favorite bread.
With fresh, wholesome ingredients, you can feel good about what you’re eating.

If you are looking for a way to elevate your meal experience, this tomato basil soup is your answer. It’s not just another soup; it’s an explosion of flavors that brings your kitchen to life and warms your heart!

How to Make Homemade Tomato Basil Soup

Creating your own homemade tomato basil soup is not rocket science; it’s a labor of love that you can accomplish in just a few easy steps. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delicious recipe that invites homey aromas and delightful flavors.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before starting, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

Fresh tomatoes
Onion
Garlic
Basil leaves
Vegetable broth
Olive oil
Heavy cream
Salt
Pepper

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Tomato Basil Soup

Get the Oven Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is essential for roasting those tomatoes to perfection.
Prepare the Tomatoes
Cut the tomatoes in half, and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet. This is where the magic begins! Drizzle them generously with olive oil, and don’t forget to sprinkle some salt and pepper for an extra flavor kick. Roast the tomatoes in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, allowing them to caramelize slightly, which enhances their natural sweetness.
Sauté Aromatics
As the tomatoes roast, grab a pot and heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, throw in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté these until they become tender and aromatic, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering smells.
Combine the Goodness
After the tomatoes have roasted, take them out of the oven and carefully scoop them into your pot with the sautéed aromatics. Add the vegetable broth and a handful of fresh basil leaves to the mixture. This is where the flavors start to meld together beautifully.
Simmer and Cook
Bring the soup mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to deepen and makes your kitchen smell even more inviting.
Blend Until Smooth
Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup until it’s silky smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer it to a regular blender in batches. Just be cautious with the hot liquid—it splatters!
Add Creamy Richness
Once blended, stir in some heavy cream. This is the cherry on top that elevates your soup and gives it a luxurious touch. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more salt and pepper.
Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the warm, delectable soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil. Dive right in, and relish each comforting spoonful.

Storage Tips for Homemade Tomato Basil Soup

To keep your delicious tomato basil soup fresh, follow these storage guidelines:

Refrigerate: Store your soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days at 40°F (4°C).
Freeze: You can freeze the soup for extended storage; it will maintain its best quality for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags.
Reheat: When you are ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until it is piping hot.

Best Ways to Serve Homemade Tomato Basil Soup

Serving your homemade tomato basil soup can be as fun as making it! Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

Pair with Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty sourdough or a warm baguette is the perfect companion for dipping into your soup.
Garnish with Croutons: For added texture, sprinkle some homemade or store-bought croutons on top before serving.
Top with Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or mozzarella can add a lovely cheesy richness that complements the tomatoes and basil.
Create a Gourmet Experience: Serve with a side salad of mixed greens drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a wholesome lunch.
Make It a Complete Meal: Enjoy your soup with a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting twist that never goes out of style.

Tips to Make Homemade Tomato Basil Soup

Use Good Quality Ingredients: The star of this recipe is fresh tomatoes. Picking ripe, juicy tomatoes will significantly enhance the flavor of the soup.
Get Creative with Herbs: Feel free to mix in other fresh herbs such as thyme or oregano to add a different dimension to your soup.
Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or add less heavy cream. For a thinner soup, simply add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Variations or Substitutions

If you want to add a twist to your tomato basil soup, consider these variations:

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions and garlic for a spicy version that gives your soup an extra layer of flavor.
Creamy Vegan Option: Swap out the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative that still provides creaminess.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be prepared in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator or freezer as directed above, and it will taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld.

Q: How do I make it spicy?
You can increase the heat by adding crushed red pepper flakes during the cooking process or incorporate a diced serrano pepper along with the garlic and onions.

Q: What can I serve with this soup?
This tomato basil soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, quinoa salad, or a fresh vegetable platter.

Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, if fresh tomatoes are not available, canned San Marzano tomatoes work perfectly. Simply skip the roasting step and start with sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the canned tomatoes and broth.

By following this delicious recipe for homemade tomato basil soup, you’ll not only be treating yourself to a meal full of flavor but also creating a wonderful atmosphere in your kitchen. There’s something undeniably rewarding about crafting your own soup from scratch. Enjoy every last spoonful of this vibrant and cozy dish!