Hearty Tomato Basil Soup

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade Hearty Tomato Basil Soup on a chilly day. This rich and flavorful soup combines the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the fresh, aromatic taste of basil. With a smooth, creamy texture and just the right balance of herbs and seasonings, this tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for lunch, dinner, or as an appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion (chopped)

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• 4 cups ripe tomatoes (chopped, or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)

• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version)

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free version)

• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

How to Make Hearty Tomato Basil Soup:

Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Broth: If using fresh tomatoes, add them to the pot and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If using canned crushed tomatoes, simply add them to the pot along with the vegetable broth. Stir to combine.

Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend it to your desired consistency, or transfer the soup in batches to a blender.

Add Cream and Basil: Once the soup is blended and smooth, add the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and dried basil. Stir well and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if needed to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.

Why This Hearty Tomato Basil Soup Works:

• Tomatoes: Naturally sweet and tangy, tomatoes form the base of this soup, creating a rich flavor that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

• Basil: Fresh basil adds an aromatic, herbal note that brightens the soup and complements the tomatoes perfectly.

• Creaminess: The addition of heavy cream (or coconut milk) gives the soup a velvety smooth texture that makes each spoonful comforting and indulgent.

• Simple Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients, this tomato basil soup is easy to make yet packed with flavor.

A Perfect Comfort Meal

This Hearty Tomato Basil Soup is the perfect choice for a cozy, comforting meal. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and ideal for pairing with your favorite bread or sandwich. Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or as a starter for a larger meal, this soup will surely become a favorite in your household.