Tomato Basil Soup
Tomato Basil Soup simmers tablespoon olive oil with medium white or yellow onion until the bowl tastes hearty, warm, and well seasoned.
About This Recipe
Tomato Basil Soup builds flavor by simmering the base slowly instead of rushing the pot.
Let aromatics, broth, and main ingredients cook until the texture turns hearty and balanced.
Ingredients
- ✓1 tablespoon olive oil
- ✓1 medium white or yellow onion (diced)
- ✓4 cloves minced garlic
- ✓1 cup chicken broth
- ✓2 (15 ounce cans) fire roasted diced tomatoes
- ✓1/2 teaspoon salt
- ✓1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- ✓12 large fresh basil leaves (chopped)
- ✓1/2 cup heavy cream
Ingredient Notes
- Aromatics: Onion, garlic, celery, or spices should cook first to build flavor.
- Broth: Use a broth that tastes good on its own.
- Main ingredient: Simmer until fully tender, not mushy.
- Finishing seasoning: Taste at the end because soups change as they reduce.
Instructions
- 1
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add 1 medium white or yellow onion (diced) and sauté for about 5 minutes, until soft and translucent.
- 2
Stir in 4 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- 3
Add 1 cup chicken broth, 2 (15 ounce cans) fire roasted diced tomatoes (with juices), 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a boil.
- 4
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
- 5
Remove from heat. Stir in 12 large fresh basil leaves (chopped).
- 6
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer soup in batches to a blender. Vent the lid slightly to allow steam to escape and prevent pressure buildup. Return soup to the pot.
- 7
Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- 8
Serve hot with grilled cheese, crusty bread, or a sprinkle of fresh basil on top.
Katy’s Kitchen Tips
- Cook aromatics first for a stronger base.
- Simmer gently instead of boiling hard.
- Taste and adjust salt near the end.
- Add dairy or delicate herbs after the strongest heat has passed.
Variations and Substitutions
- Creamier bowl: Blend a portion or add cream.
- Extra vegetables: Add greens, carrots, corn, potatoes, or mushrooms.
- Spicier pot: Add chili flakes or hot sauce.
- Hearty serving: Serve with rice, noodles, or bread.
What to Serve With Tomato Basil Soup
Serve Tomato Basil Soup with crusty bread, cornbread, rice, salad, or a simple sandwich.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding broth or water if the soup thickens.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Boiling too hard: A rough boil can make meat tough and vegetables mushy.
- Adding dairy too early: Creamy ingredients can split under high heat.
- Forgetting final seasoning: Soup often needs a last adjustment after simmering.
- Thin flavor: A little acid, herbs, or extra simmering can deepen the bowl.
FAQ
Can I make Tomato Basil Soup ahead?
Yes. Soups often taste even better after resting.
Can I freeze it?
Broth-based soups usually freeze well; creamy soups need gentle reheating.
How do I thicken it?
Simmer uncovered, blend a small portion, or add a little thickener.
How do I brighten the flavor?
Finish with herbs, citrus, vinegar, or pepper.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 135 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 27 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Sodium: 564 mg
- Sugar: 4 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g