There’s just something about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening, isn’t there? It’s like a cozy hug right in your kitchen. Forget those complicated recipes that take forever! My go-to for pure comfort is this unbelievably easy Classic Tomato Basil Soup. It’s the kind of soup that tastes like it simmered all day, but really, it comes together in a flash. I remember making this when I was first learning to cook – it was one of the first things I mastered, and it never fails to bring back those happy, simple kitchen moments. It’s just ridiculously satisfying!
Why You’ll Love This Classic Tomato Basil Soup
Seriously, who doesn’t need a super-fast, super-tasty soup in their life? This recipe is going to be your new best friend because:
- It’s incredibly quick to whip up – perfect for those busy weeknights!
- It uses super simple ingredients you probably already have.
- The fresh basil makes it taste SO vibrant and delicious.
- It’s pure comfort food in a bowl.
- It’s super versatile – great on its own or jazzed up!
Gather Your Ingredients for Classic Tomato Basil Soup
Alright, let’s get our mise en place ready! For this amazing Classic Tomato Basil Soup, you’ll need just a few simple things. Seriously, the magic is in the quality of these basic ingredients. The better your tomatoes and basil, the better your soup will be, trust me on this!
Here’s what you’ll grab:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil if you have it – it really makes a difference.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Just a regular yellow or white onion is perfect.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must here; it makes everything smell so good!
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Grab your favorite brand. Crushed tomatoes give you that lovely smooth base.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: This adds more depth than just water.
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Please, please use fresh basil! It’s the star here. You want it chopped up so the flavor gets all through the soup.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Start with this, and you can always add more later.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best if you can!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Classic Tomato Basil Soup
Okay, let’s get this soup on the go! It’s honestly so easy, you’ll be amazed. My kitchen fills up with the best smell when I make this, I just love it. We’re going to start by getting all those yummy flavors going.
Sautéing Aromatics for Flavorful Classic Tomato Basil Soup
First things first, grab a nice big pot and get your olive oil heating over medium heat. Don’t rush this part! Once it’s shimmering a bit, toss in your chopped onion. Let them soften up and get a little see-through, maybe about 5 minutes. You don’t want them brown, just soft. Then, add your minced garlic. Garlic burns super fast, so keep an eye on it – just a minute is all it needs until you can starting smelling it bubble up. That’s your signal!
Simmering the Base of Your Classic Tomato Basil Soup
Now for the heart of the soup! Pour in those crushed tomatoes and the vegetable broth. Give it all a good stir to combine everything really well. Bring this mixture up to a nice simmer – you’ll see little bubbles starting to form around the edges. Once it’s simmering, turn the heat down low. Let it just gently bubble away for about 15 minutes. This is where all those flavors really get to know each other and meld into something delicious. For a little extra oomph, you could check out this creamy tomato basil soup recipe for inspiration later!
Finishing Touches for Your Classic Tomato Basil Soup
This is where the soup really sings! Take it off the heat for a sec and stir in your chopped fresh basil. Adding it at the end keeps that bright, wonderful basil flavor from cooking away. Then, add your salt and pepper. Give it one last good taste – does it need a bit more salt? A little crack of pepper? You’re the chef now, so make it perfect for you!
Tips for the Best Classic Tomato Basil Soup
I’ve made this Classic Tomato Basil Soup so many times, and a few little tricks really make it sing. Using good quality ingredients is number one, of course – a decent can of tomatoes and super fresh basil make all the difference. Don’t skimp on the fresh basil, seriously! If you want to add a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes simmered with the tomatoes is fantastic. And if you happen to have some extra ripe tomatoes, don’t be afraid to chop them up and toss them in with the canned ones for an even deeper tomato flavor. Oh, and for another cool tomato idea, check out this gazpacho style tomato juice recipe!
Variations and Serving Suggestions
This Classic Tomato Basil Soup is pretty amazing just as it is, but it’s also super fun to play around with! If you’re craving something a little richer, just stir in about a quarter cup of heavy cream right at the end. It makes it wonderfully decadent. Or maybe you like a little heat? Throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic – it adds a nice little zing without being too much. And don’t stop at basil; sometimes I toss in a bit of fresh oregano too! What to serve with it? Oh boy, the possibilities are endless! Grab some crusty bread for dipping (my cheesy garlic bread is perfect!), or serve it alongside a fresh Caesar salad. It’s pure comfort!
Storing and Reheating Your Classic Tomato Basil Soup
So, you made a big batch of this amazing Classic Tomato Basil Soup, and guess what? It’s even better the next day! To keep it fresh, just pop any leftovers into an airtight container. It’ll be perfectly happy in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you don’t think you’ll get through it that quickly, no worries! This soup freezes like a dream. Ladle it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space at the top for expansion, and it should keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating is super simple. If it’s been in the fridge, just warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. If you’re reheating from frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight first, then follow the stovetop method. Be careful not to boil it; we just want it nice and warm and delicious again!
Frequently Asked Questions about Classic Tomato Basil Soup
Got questions about this amazing soup? I’ve got answers!
Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of crushed?
You sure can! Using diced tomatoes will give your Classic Tomato Basil Soup a bit more texture. If you use diced, you might want to mash them up a little with your spoon while they’re simmering, or give the soup a quick pulse with an immersion blender at the end if you prefer it smoother. Works great either way!
How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already pretty much vegan! The base is made with vegetable broth and no animal products. The only thing you might want to watch out for is if you decide to add cream (which I mention in the variations). Just skip the cream, and you’re golden! It’s naturally dairy-free and fits right into a vegan diet.
What’s the best way to store fresh basil for this recipe?
For the freshest basil flavor in your Classic Tomato Basil Soup, it’s best to use it right after you chop it. If you have extra, store fresh basil leaves loosely wrapped in a slightly damp paper towel inside a plastic bag in your fridge. It should stay pretty good for a few days. But honestly, for the brightest taste, try to use it the same day you buy it!
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup is one of those recipes that actually tastes even better the next day. The flavors have more time to meld together beautifully. Just make it according to the recipe, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it!
Nutritional Information
Just a heads-up, these numbers are just estimates, okay? They can change depending on the brands you use and exactly how you make it, but this gives you a good idea. This fantastic Classic Tomato Basil Soup is pretty light on the calories, which is always a win!
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: Around 150
- Fat: About 6g
- Carbohydrates: Roughly 20g
- Protein: Approximately 4g
Classic Tomato Basil Soup
- Total Time: 35 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and flavorful tomato basil soup.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in fresh basil, salt, and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- For a creamier soup, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream before serving.
- Garnish with extra basil leaves or a swirl of cream.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: tomato basil soup, classic tomato soup, homemade tomato soup, easy tomato soup, vegetarian soup