How to Make a Hearty Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato basil soup is a classic dish that never fails to impress both kids and adults alike. Perfect for chilly autumn evenings or any time you just want something comforting, this soup offers rich flavors of tomatoes and herbs. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to prepare a delicious tomato basil soup, suitable for 4 servings, in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups diced fresh tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 3/4 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

To start, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, then sauté until the onions are soft and translucent.

Once the onions are golden brown and fragrant, add the diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir continuously while cooking for about 5 minutes to allow the tomato flavors to meld together with the onions.

Next, stir in the chicken broth or vegetable broth, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the mixture for another 10-12 minutes until the soup is richly flavored.

If you prefer a smooth texture, use an immersion blender to puree half of the mixture right inside the pot. For those who like their soup chunky, simply blend the entire batch in batches using a regular blender or food processor after removing it from heat.

For a creamier version, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream before serving. If you prefer to keep it lighter and reduce calories, omit the cream altogether. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant look and extra freshness.

This tomato basil soup can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside some crusty bread. The flavors are subtle yet complex; the tomatoes provide sweetness that is balanced by savory garlic, while the basil adds an aromatic punch. If you’re looking to add more depth, consider serving it with grilled cheese sandwiches. The contrasting textures of soft tomato and crispy bread make for a satisfying meal.

For those who want to experiment further, feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. For instance, adding some spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking can give you a vibrant green version, or substituting part of the broth with wine could add an extra depth of flavor.

Tomato basil soup is not only delicious but also versatile in terms of what it can be paired with and how it can be adapted to various tastes. Whether you're looking for comfort food during winter months or a light meal on a summer afternoon, this soup will never disappoint.

To conclude, preparing tomato basil soup at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients while enjoying the rich flavors that make this dish so beloved. The simplicity and adaptability of this recipe mean it's perfect for beginners in cooking, yet sophisticated enough to impress your guests. So why not try making a batch today? With just 30 minutes of effort, you can create a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.