The silky texture and deep flavor of this tomato soup make it a timeless comfort food favorite. Whether you’re curled up with a book on a rainy day or preparing a light dinner for the family, this soup delivers a rich and savory experience. Using pantry staples like canned tomatoes and tomato paste, this recipe comes together quickly and effortlessly. The addition of fresh basil and a touch of cream elevates the dish, creating a smooth, aromatic finish that pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a gooey grilled cheese sandwich.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 small onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes
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1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
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1 teaspoon sugar
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
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1/4 cup heavy cream
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1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
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Add chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until translucent.
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Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
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Pour in the canned tomatoes (with juices) and broth. Break up the tomatoes with a spoon.
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Add sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook uncovered for 15 minutes.
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Remove from heat. Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches.
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Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Reheat gently if needed.
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Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with optional garnish of fresh basil or croutons.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Velvety Homemade Tomato Basil Soup: A Timeless Classic Reinvented
Tomato soup is more than just a comfort food it’s a nostalgic dish that transcends cultures, seasons, and generations. Whether it reminds you of childhood lunches paired with crispy grilled cheese or cold winter evenings warmed by a steaming bowl, the simple elegance of tomato soup has remained largely unchanged. The Velvety Homemade Tomato Basil Soup brings this beloved classic to new heights with rich flavors, aromatic herbs, and a creamy finish, all while maintaining the integrity of the original dish.
The History of Tomato Soup
The roots of tomato soup can be traced back centuries, even before tomatoes became a staple in European cuisine. Tomatoes, native to the Americas, were introduced to Europe in the 16th century and gradually became a fundamental ingredient in Mediterranean cooking. It wasn’t until the 19th century, however, that tomato soup as we know it began to appear in cookbooks and kitchens.
One of the most iconic milestones in tomato soup history was the introduction of canned tomato soup by Joseph Campbell in 1897. This innovation revolutionized how soup was prepared, making it quick, accessible, and convenient for home cooks across the United States. Today, while canned versions still exist, there’s a growing movement back toward homemade varieties that prioritize fresh ingredients and bolder, more nuanced flavors like those found in this modern velvety version.
Why This Tomato Basil Soup Stands Out
Unlike the more acidic or watery versions you might find in a can, this homemade tomato basil soup is rich, balanced, and layered with depth. The combination of sautéed onions and garlic, high-quality tomatoes, fresh basil, and a splash of cream transforms a few pantry staples into a luxurious dish. It’s the kind of meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
What makes it “velvety” is the texture a result of careful blending and the inclusion of a small amount of cream. This adds a silky smoothness to the soup that feels comforting on the palate without being overly heavy. The basil provides a fresh, aromatic lift that keeps the flavors vibrant and balanced.
Nutritional Benefits of Tomato Basil Soup
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Tomatoes are an excellent source of several key vitamins and minerals, particularly:
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Lycopene: A powerful antioxidant that’s been linked to reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.
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Vitamin C: Boosts immunity and promotes healthy skin.
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Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure.
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Folate: Important for cell function and tissue growth.
When cooked, the bioavailability of lycopene increases, making tomato soup an especially effective way to absorb this beneficial compound.
The addition of garlic and onion also provides anti-inflammatory benefits, while the basil adds trace minerals and antioxidants. The cream, although optional, can be substituted with non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk or oat cream for those looking to reduce saturated fat or follow a vegan diet.
Variations and Customizations
One of the strengths of this tomato soup recipe is its flexibility. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, dietary restrictions, or your own culinary curiosity, there are countless ways to tweak the soup while preserving its essence:
For a Vegan Version:
Simply replace the heavy cream with coconut milk, cashew cream, or any unsweetened plant-based alternative. You’ll still achieve that rich mouthfeel without any dairy.
For Extra Protein:
Add cooked white beans or red lentils while the soup simmers. They blend seamlessly into the mixture and add valuable plant-based protein.
Spice It Up:
For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili while sautéing the onions and garlic. The spice contrasts nicely with the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
Roasted Tomato Option:
Roasting fresh tomatoes before adding them to the pot brings out their natural sugars and imparts a smoky depth to the soup. Simply halve your tomatoes, drizzle with olive oil, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes.
Herbs and Toppings:
Fresh thyme, oregano, or even a bay leaf can deepen the flavor profile. As for garnishes, consider topping your bowl with homemade croutons, a swirl of pesto, or a sprinkle of Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
Serving Suggestions
Tomato basil soup is wonderfully versatile and can be served as a starter, main course, or even a light snack. Here are a few ideas to complete the meal:
Classic Pairing:
The iconic duo of tomato soup and grilled cheese never goes out of style. A sharp cheddar on sourdough is a timeless choice, but you can elevate it with additions like caramelized onions, bacon, or a mix of artisan cheeses.
Crusty Bread or Rolls:
A warm baguette or freshly baked roll is perfect for dipping. Add garlic butter or a herb-infused olive oil on the side for extra flair.
Salad Complement:
Pair your soup with a crisp salad think arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a Mediterranean bowl with cucumbers, olives, and feta.
Light Dinner or Appetizer:
Serve in small cups or mugs for elegant dinner parties or brunches. The presentation is charming, and the portion size makes it easy to enjoy without being too filling.
Ideal for All Seasons
While many associate tomato soup with winter comfort food, this version works beautifully year-round. In summer, serve it chilled like a gazpacho for a refreshing appetizer. In the cooler months, pair it with hearty bread or sandwiches for a satisfying meal. The use of canned tomatoes ensures consistency and convenience regardless of the season.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This soup stores exceptionally well. You can make a large batch and refrigerate it for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Simply let the soup cool completely, portion it into airtight containers, and label with the date. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
For best texture after freezing, stir in the cream only after reheating, as dairy can sometimes separate during freezing.
Why Homemade is Always Better
There’s something deeply satisfying about creating your own soup from scratch. Not only do you have full control over the ingredients, but the act of making it sautéing the onions, watching the tomatoes simmer, and blending everything into a smooth, creamy bowl can be therapeutic in itself.
Homemade tomato basil soup also eliminates the preservatives, excessive sodium, and artificial flavors found in many store-bought or canned versions. The reward is a soup that’s richer, fresher, and infinitely more customizable to your preferences.
Conclusion:
The Velvety Homemade Tomato Basil Soup is a reminder that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. With its creamy consistency, rich tomato flavor, and herbal notes of basil, it delivers everything we love about comfort food nostalgia, warmth, and satisfaction while offering the opportunity to nourish the body and soul.
Whether you’re cooking for a quiet evening at home or serving guests a comforting appetizer, this tomato soup stands tall as a timeless recipe you’ll return to again and again. With just a few tweaks, it can fit into any lifestyle, dietary need, or culinary craving. So grab a pot, open a can of tomatoes, and let your kitchen fill with the delicious aroma of a soup that has earned its place in kitchens across the world.