Easy Italian Tomato Basil Soup

Looking for a comforting, easy-to-make soup that can warm you up on chilly evenings? Look no further than our simple yet delicious Italian Tomato Basil Soup. This versatile dish is packed with flavor and offers a hearty meal perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks. With just a handful of ingredients, this soup takes only 20 minutes to prepare and serves four generous portions.

To start preparing your Italian Tomato Basil Soup, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped finely
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A sprig of fresh thyme or oregano for extra flavor (optional)

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft.

Incorporate the minced garlic into the onions. Allow the mixture to cook for about 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly. This simple step adds depth of flavor which is essential in creating a rich and inviting soup base.

Next, add both cans of crushed tomatoes, sugar (if using), salt, pepper, thyme or oregano (if preferred) into your pot. Stir well before allowing the mixture to simmer for around 15-20 minutes until the flavors have thoroughly combined and the tomato sauce has thickened slightly.

Once cooked, take a ladle and scoop up some of this tasty blend, then pulse it in a blender until smooth. Blend just enough to achieve a silky consistency without making the soup too creamy or watery. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender if available for a quicker process.

If desired, garnish your Italian Tomato Basil Soup with additional fresh basil leaves and serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast on the side. This dish is equally tasty served cold as a refreshing summer soup.

For those who prefer their meals packed with even more flavor and nutrition, consider adding some cooked penne pasta to this base for an all-in-one meal. Simply add a cup of uncooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta type before blending the soup. Cook according to package instructions until al dente; once done, stir in the blended tomato basil mixture until thoroughly incorporated.

Italian Tomato Basil Soup is not only easy on both time and effort but also on your wallet! Made with ingredients readily available from most grocery stores, you can enjoy this comforting dish without breaking the bank. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices like bay leaves, red pepper flakes, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a unique twist.

This easy Italian Tomato Basil Soup is perfect as a main course during colder months or an appetizer paired with fresh bread and cheese in warmer weather. Whether you're hosting dinner guests or simply craving something cozy at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among family members and friends alike!