Easy Tomato Basil Soup
Equipment
- Blender or Immersion Blender (Optional)
- Normal Kitchen Utensils
Ingredients
- 1 28 Oz. Can Crushed Tomatoes You can also use diced or stewed tomatoes (try for italian style if possible), or 3 C of fresh, chopped tomatoes.
- 2 C Vegetable Broth Chicken Broth also works
- 1 Small Onion Diced
- 1/2 C Heavy Cream or Half n Half
- 1/4 C Fresh Basil Roughly 0.25 Oz., or 1 tsp dried
- 2-3 Cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 Tbsp Olive Oil or Butter
- 1 tsp Sugar (Optional) if you like your soup sweeter
- Salt and Pepper to Taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a medium pot.1 Tbsp Olive Oil
- If you are using fresh basil, remove the leaves from the stems and reserve the stems. Chop or julienne the leaves.1/4 C Fresh Basil
- Add the chopped onion, and a heavy pinch of salt, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Stir the garlic in and sauté another 1 minute.1 Small Onion, 2-3 Cloves Garlic, Salt and Pepper to Taste
- Stir in the tomatoes and broth. If using fresh basil, add the stems (you will pull them out later). If using dried basil, add it now).Bring the soup to a simmer and cover (reduce the heat as necessary to keep the soup simmering). Cook 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld.1 28 Oz. Can Crushed Tomatoes, 2 C Vegetable Broth
- Cut the heat and remove the basil stems. Stir in the fresh basil leaves, (optional) sugar, and cream.1/2 C Heavy Cream or Half n Half
- I recommend blending this soup, but you don't have to if you prefer a chunkier texture. Blend with an immersion blender, or heat-safe blender, until the soup reaches a texture of your liking.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot. You can garnish with some fresh cracked black pepper, some grated parmesan, extra chopped basil, or even a drizzle of cream. It goes great with a side of garlic bread or a grilled cheese.
Easy Tomato Basil Soup: A Comforting Classic
Tomato basil soup is one of those timeless dishes that brings comfort in every spoonful. This isn’t your typical canned, concentrated tomato soup. This has layers of flavor that will elevate your meal. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or you’re just in need of a quick and easy meal, this soup never disappoints. With a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a bowl of delicious, velvety soup that’s perfect on its own or paired with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. Each ingredient contributes to a depth of flavor that makes this soup stand out from the rest.
A Brief History of Tomato Soup
Tomato soup has a rich history, deeply rooted in American culinary traditions. Though tomatoes originated in the Americas and were first cultivated by the Aztecs and Incas, it wasn’t until the late 19th century that the smooth, creamy tomato soup we know today became popular in the United States. The Campbell Soup Company, established in the 1890s, played a huge role in making tomato soup a household staple. Their condensed tomato soup was not only convenient but also affordable, solidifying its place in American kitchens.
Fun Facts About Tomato Basil Soup
Did you know that tomatoes were once considered poisonous? Early European settlers were suspicious of this bright red fruit, but it quickly became a beloved ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine. Basil, the other star of this dish, has its origins in Asia and was introduced to Europe through trade routes. Together, tomato and basil create a harmonious flavor profile that’s now iconic in Italian and American dishes alike.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
This recipe for Easy Tomato Basil Soup is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It’s made with simple pantry staples—canned tomatoes, broth, garlic, and onions—and finished with fresh or dried basil for that classic flavor. If you have an immersion blender, you can achieve a smooth texture directly in the pot, saving time and reducing cleanup. Don’t forget to drizzle a little cream for extra richness or keep it dairy-free if you prefer a lighter version.
Pairing Suggestions
Looking for the perfect companion to this Easy Tomato Basil Soup? You’ll want to try our copycat recipe for the grilled cheese at Woody’s Lunchbox in Hollywood Studios. This sandwich is the ultimate comfort food and pairs beautifully with the tangy, savory notes of the soup.
If you’re in the mood for more soup, why not explore something different? Our tortilla soup recipe is a flavorful option that’s packed with bold spices and tender chicken. It’s another quick and easy meal that’ll warm you up in no time.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Easy Tomato Basil Soup recipe is a must-try. It’s a comforting classic that never goes out of style. With its rich history and simple preparation, it’s a dish you’ll come back to time and again.
Some content generated with the help of ChatGPT | OpenAI: https://www.openai.com/