Homemade Italian Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Looking for a warm and comforting soup to enjoy during cooler autumn days? Homemade Italian tomato basil soup is your perfect choice! This simple yet flavorful recipe will satisfy your cravings in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend evenings. Let’s dive into the details of how you can prepare this delightful dish.

Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 generous portions

Ingredients You Will Need

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
2 cups beef broth or vegetable broth
4 fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
Bread or crusty Italian bread for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another couple of minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Blend the Flavorful Sauce

Add both cans of crushed tomatoes to the pot along with the beef broth or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. During this time, make sure to stir occasionally.

Step 3: Integrate Fresh Ingredients

Once the soup has been simmering for quite some time, gently fold in fresh basil leaves into the pot. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.

Tips and Variations

To make sure the soup is smooth enough without pureeing everything, strain half of the mixture through a fine mesh sieve right after adding fresh basil leaves if desired consistency isn't achieved naturally.
For a bit more kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or jalapeños depending on your taste preferences and dietary restrictions.
If you’re aiming for an extra nutritional boost, add spinach during the final few minutes of cooking to enrich the soup further with additional vitamins and minerals.

How to Serve Homemade Italian Tomato Basil Soup

For a perfect presentation and flavor complement, serve this homemade Italian tomato basil soup hot alongside slices of crusty bread or warm ciabatta rolls. You could also garnish each bowl with additional fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of freshness.

Tips on Serving Size

Each person should get approximately 1 cup of the soup, which will ensure you have enough to savor slowly without feeling overly full. Adjust portion sizes based on personal preferences and family sizes accordingly.

To store leftovers properly, transfer them into an airtight container once cooled down slightly after serving. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze if you prefer longer preservation periods. Thaw frozen portions carefully before reheating.

Conclusion

Cooking homemade Italian tomato basil soup is not only rewarding but also incredibly enjoyable! With its rich flavors and simplicity, it becomes a go-to recipe in many households around the world. Whether served as part of a hearty meal or enjoyed alone on a quiet evening, this soup promises to be a delightful experience every single time.

Enjoy your cooking journey with this versatile and comforting Italian tomato basil soup!