The Best Homemade Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade tomato basil soup is a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any day. With its rich flavor and simple ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Easy to make – it comes together in just about 30 minutes with minimal prep. Healthy and fresh – packed with ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a touch of cream for smoothness. Versatile – pair it with grilled cheese, pasta, or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying meal.
Recipe
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this classic tomato basil soup. It’s easy to make at home with fresh ingredients, offering a rich, creamy, and aromatic dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes)
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and blend the soup using an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender until smooth.
- Return the soup to the pot and stir in chopped basil. Add heavy cream if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra basil leaves if desired.
Notes:
- For a vegan version, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or omit entirely.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender or regular blender
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cuisine:
Italian-inspired
Serving:
Serves 4
Nutrition
This homemade tomato basil soup is packed with nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrition | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Total Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 12 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg |
| Calcium | 60 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
| Potassium | 600 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving this soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread—it’s perfect for soaking up every last bit of flavor. A fresh, crisp salad on the side adds a nice contrast to the rich tomato base, making the meal feel complete. You can’t go wrong with these simple, yet satisfying pairings.
Crusty Bread Pairings
Nothing makes a bowl of tomato basil soup more satisfying than serving it with crusty bread. I love how different bread varieties can elevate the meal—whether it’s a rustic sourdough, a chewy baguette, or a soft focaccia. Each type brings its own charm, especially when paired with the soup’s smooth texture. Dipping a warm slice into the rich, velvety soup is pure comfort. Sometimes, I’ll toast the bread for extra crunch, which contrasts beautifully with the soup’s creaminess. It’s such a simple yet perfect pairing that turns a humble bowl of soup into a cozy, hearty meal.
Fresh Salad Options
While a bowl of tomato basil soup is a star on its own, pairing it with a fresh salad can brighten up the meal and add a revitalizing crunch. I love starting with a simple green salad—mixed greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. It’s invigorating and balances the soup’s richness. For a sweeter twist, I’ll whip up a fruit salad with strawberries, blueberries, and mango. The burst of flavors complements the soup wonderfully. Both options are quick to prepare and make the meal feel complete. Honestly, it’s a combo that never disappoints and always leaves me satisfied!
