Comforting Tomato Basil Soup

Name: Comforting Tomato Basil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cans (14 oz each) diced tomatoes, with juice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk

Highlighted under: Rustic Comfort Kitchen

I love making Comforting Tomato Basil Soup, especially on chilly days. The warm aroma of fresh basil and simmering tomatoes fills my kitchen, making it a soothing haven. This soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. I often like to add a splash of cream or a sprinkle of parmesan for a rich finish. It’s the perfect companion to a grilled cheese sandwich or a crusty loaf of bread for dipping. Simple ingredients transform into a bowl of comfort that warms my heart.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-13T13:31:29.204Z

When I first tried making tomato basil soup, I was surprised at how such simple ingredients could yield such rich flavor. I’ve learned that using fresh basil and ripe tomatoes is key, and the blend of sautéed onions adds just the right sweetness. Each time I prepare it, I remember to adjust the herbs, depending on the season, for an extra layer of depth that keeps it exciting.

Another tip I've picked up is to let it simmer longer than you think. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. A quick blend with an immersion blender gives it that creamy texture that I adore. Don’t skip the finishing touch—drizzling a little olive oil right before serving elevates the entire dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor that brightens the dish
Creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
Perfectly paired with a crusty baguette or a classic grilled cheese

      

Perfecting the Simmer

Simmering the soup for the recommended 20 minutes is crucial for developing depth of flavor. This step allows the natural sweetness from the tomatoes to intensify and meld beautifully with the aromatic onion and garlic. Keeping the heat low prevents the mixture from boiling too aggressively, which could lead to undesirable textures and burnt flavors. The goal is to achieve a gentle bubbling that encourages the ingredients to release their essences without losing the freshness of the basil.

Ensure you occasionally stir the soup during simmering. This allows you to prevent sticking on the bottom of the pot, where the natural sugars could caramelize and burn. A silicone spatula works well for scraping up any bits that might settle. If you notice the soup thickening too much, don't hesitate to add a splash more vegetable broth to keep the consistency creamy and pourable.

The Art of Blending

When it comes time to blend your soup, an immersion blender is your best friend. It’s convenient, minimizes mess, and allows you to control the texture to your liking. For a fully creamy consistency, blend until silky smooth. If you prefer a little chunkiness, blend briefly to create a delightful contrast of textures. Just be cautious not to over-blend; doing so may make the soup too thin and lose that hearty feel that makes it comforting.

If you don’t have an immersion blender, a traditional stand blender works as well. Just make sure to let the soup cool slightly first before transferring to avoid splattering. Always fill the blender no more than halfway, and pulse gently at first to release steam slowly. Blend in batches if necessary, remembering to cover the lid with a kitchen towel to prevent any hot soup from escaping.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Tomato Basil Soup can be made ahead of time, and it actually tastes even better the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm on medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, simply stir in a bit of vegetable broth or water until the desired consistency is achieved.

Consider elevating your serving experience by garnishing your soup with freshly torn basil leaves or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top not only adds flavor but also introduces a salty, nutty contrast that perfectly complements the soup's sweetness. Serve with crusty bread or a gourmet grilled cheese for an indulgent pairing that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create this comforting dish:

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (14 oz each) diced tomatoes, with juice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh basil leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk

These ingredients come together to create a delightful blend of flavors.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare the soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juice and the vegetable broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Blend and Season

Add the fresh basil leaves to the pot and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, stir in the cream for added richness.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with olive oil if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a sandwich for a complete meal.

Your delicious tomato basil soup is ready to warm your soul!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing process. You can also garnish with extra basil or croutons for added texture.

Ingredient Insights

The use of canned tomatoes in this recipe is not just a convenience, but they offer a balanced acidity that fresh tomatoes may lack out of season. Look for high-quality brands that use San Marzano tomatoes, as they deliver a rich, sweet flavor ideal for soups. The juice included in the cans adds body and texture, which is crucial for achieving that lush mouthfeel you expect from a classic tomato soup.

Fresh basil is the star herb in this recipe; it minimizes bitterness and enhances the overall flavor. You can experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme if basil isn’t available, but remember that they have a stronger flavor, so adjust the quantities accordingly. Adding the basil at the blending stage helps retain its vibrant color and aromatic qualities, ensuring that it stays fresh and impactful.

Dietary Modifications

For a vegan version of this comforting soup, simply omit the heavy cream and replace it with coconut milk or a splash of plant-based cream for a rich alternative. Coconut milk will lend a subtle sweetness and depth that pairs surprisingly well with tomatoes. Always taste and adjust seasonings if using alternative creams, as they can change the profile of your dish.

If you are looking to cut down on carbs, consider replacing the traditional serving accompaniments with zucchini noodles or a side salad. Both of these options bring freshness and crunch, contrasting beautifully with the creamy soup while keeping your meal lighter. Adding roasted chicken or a protein source of your choice could also transform this soup into a more substantial main dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 2 lbs of fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped, will work well.

→ Is this soup vegan?

Yes, the soup is vegan without the cream. Use coconut milk or leave it out for a lighter version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.