Delicious Homemade Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Tomato basil soup is one of those comforting dishes that can be enjoyed year-round, but it especially becomes a favorite during cooler months or when you need a hearty and nourishing meal. This classic soup recipe is simple to make with only a few ingredients while yielding rich flavors. Perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks alike, this tomato basil soup provides an opportunity to explore the world of homemade cooking.

Ingredients needed:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 medium-sized tomatoes, peeled and finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 quart chicken or vegetable broth
• Dash of nutmeg (optional)
• 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer soup
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it softens and becomes translucent.
2. Add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds to release its flavors without burning them.
3. Throw in the diced tomatoes, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it cook down slightly for approximately 15 minutes while reducing the tomato liquid.
4. Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine everything together. Bring the mixture up to a boil before reducing heat back to low and letting simmer for about another 20-30 minutes. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Once cooked, carefully puree the soup using an immersion blender until smooth. Alternatively, you could transfer half of the contents into a regular blender, blending it until silky smooth before returning it back into the pot.
6. Add cream or half-and-half if desired for extra richness. Stir gently and let cook for another 5 minutes to thicken slightly without bringing back up to a boil so as not to curdle the mixture.
7. For that final touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped basil leaves on top of each serving before dishing out your homemade tomato basil soup into bowls.

Cooking Time: About 45 minutes for preparation and cooking combined. Number of Servings: 6-8 servings

Healthy Benefits of Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato basil soup isn't just comforting; it offers several health benefits due to its key ingredients:

• Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, tomatoes are beneficial for heart health and skin protection.
• Basil: Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, basil helps support brain function and reduces inflammation in the body.
• Garlic: Known to boost immunity and fight off infections; garlic also aids digestion.

This simple yet flavorful dish can be customized further depending on individual taste preferences or dietary restrictions such as reducing sodium content, adding more vegetables like carrots or zucchini, or using low-fat milk instead of heavy cream.

How to Customize Tomato Basil Soup

• Vary the broth: While traditional recipes call for chicken or vegetable broth, feel free to experiment with different types like beef broth for a richer flavor or even use low-sodium options if preferred.
• Add more spices: If you love spice, consider incorporating cumin, coriander, or cinnamon to enhance the aroma and taste of your soup.

Tomato basil soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it as a standalone meal during colder days or pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying dinner. Additionally, leftovers are perfect for lunch packed in containers or transformed into a hearty chili by adding beans and corn.

Storage Tips

To store leftover tomato basil soup, let the hot soup cool down to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. Place this container in your refrigerator where it will last up to five days. For long-term storage, consider freezing portions of your homemade soup; they’ll stay fresh for about three months when stored correctly.