Perfectly Balanced Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

In a world filled with numerous soup options, one that has consistently stood the test of time and is widely beloved is tomato basil soup. This recipe offers a blend of flavors that come from fresh tomatoes, savory herbs, and aromatic spices. Here’s how you can easily prepare this comforting soup for your family or friends.

Ingredients required to make this delicious dish include:

2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium-sized tomatoes, peeled and diced
2 cups of vegetable or chicken stock
1 teaspoon of dried basil
Salt to taste (about ½ teaspoon)
Paprika to garnish if desired

Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes.

Number of Servings: Serves about 4-6 people, depending on portions per person.

Steps to Prepare Tomato Basil Soup:

Step 1: Preparing the Base

Start by heating up a large saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the olive oil and allow it to shimmer. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent and soft. This should take around 5 minutes.

Once done, add the minced garlic cloves, stirring them into the mixture for about another minute or until they start to become fragrant but not browned. Garlic when overcooked can become bitter.

Step 2: Incorporating Tomatoes

Add the diced tomatoes and stir everything together well. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing all flavors to meld together. As you let it simmer, occasionally mash some of the tomatoes to create a smoother base; this is optional but can enhance texture.

Step 3: Adding Stock

After the tomatoes have cooked down nicely and are breaking apart, add your vegetable or chicken stock depending on preference. Bring all components back up to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low. Cover partially with a lid and let it simmer again for another 10 minutes.

Step 4: Seasoning

Once the soup is tender, season according to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. The amount needed might vary depending on individual preferences. Taste the soup now to ensure everything balances out harmoniously - this is especially important when introducing new flavors like basil.

Topping Off Your Soup

To finish off, stir in the dried basil just before serving. For an extra touch of color and flavor, sprinkle some paprika over each bowl right before eating. Serve immediately with crusty bread if desired!

Health Benefits:

The combination of vegetables like tomatoes and onions provides several health benefits including increased antioxidants that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. The soup also contains vitamins A, C, E which contribute to good skin health.

Besides being deliciously satisfying, tomato basil soup is an excellent option for those who are seeking light yet nutritious meals. It’s especially beneficial during colder months when you want something warm and soothing without feeling overly heavy.

Tips For Success:

Ensure that your onions are not only chopped finely but also cooked thoroughly enough to soften them before adding the tomatoes for optimal texture later on.
If you prefer a more intense tomato flavor, consider using fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones. However, note that they may change the soup's consistency somewhat.

Enjoy making this delightful recipe at home and share it with loved ones who will surely appreciate its simplicity yet richness in taste. Whether served during winter or any other season, this tomato basil soup promises to bring warmth and satisfaction every time.