There’s just something so comforting about a warm bowl of soup, isn’t there? I absolutely adore my Homemade Tomato and Basil Soup, especially when it’s paired with adorable heart-shaped croutons! I remember the first time I made this soup; it was a chilly Friday evening, and my friends came over for a cozy dinner. As soon as we ate it, the entire room was filled with the incredible aroma of fresh tomatoes and basil simmering on the stove. Each spoonful was like a hug, and those heart-shaped croutons? Well, they left everyone giggling with delight.
Not only is this soup a soul-soother, but it also brings back fond memories of family gatherings and lazy weekend lunches. The bright, vibrant flavors of the tomatoes combined with the fragrant basil swirl beautifully, creating a lovely dish that feels gourmet but is super easy to prepare. Let’s dive in!
What’s in Homemade Tomato and Basil Soup?
Tomatoes: The star of the show! I usually opt for ripe, juicy Roma tomatoes as they lend the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, canned tomatoes work perfectly too, just look for whole peeled tomatoes in their juice.
Fresh Basil: This fragrant herb adds a sweet, peppery note to the soup. Make sure to use fresh basil leaves for that vibrant taste! Dried basil just doesn’t cut it here.
Onion: A sweet onion or yellow onion will do wonders in building a savory base for the soup. When sautéed, they create a delicious caramelized sweetness.
Garlic: Garlic adds a depth of flavor that’s absolutely irresistible. I like to use fresh garlic cloves, but if you’re in a hurry, pre-minced garlic works too!
Vegetable Broth: To soak up all the goodness, vegetable broth provides a rich backdrop. You can use store-bought or homemade—both are fabulous!
Olive Oil: This is essential for sautéing the onions and garlic, and it brings a lovely richness to the final dish.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to elevate the flavors and balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Is Homemade Tomato and Basil Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This soup is not only delicious but also brings a plethora of health benefits.
Tomatoes: Packed with vitamins C and K, tomatoes also contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Basil: This herb is rich in essential oils, particularly eugenol, which may help lower inflammation.
Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that is known for its ability to improve heart health and lower cholesterol levels.
While this dish is generally healthy, if you are watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium vegetable broth. And for those with a nightshade sensitivity, you might want to skip the tomatoes.
Ingredients List
– 2 pounds ripe Roma tomatoes (about 6-8 tomatoes)
– 1 medium yellow onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Heart-shaped bread slices (for croutons)
This recipe serves about 4 hearty bowls of soup.
How to Make Homemade Tomato and Basil Soup?
1. Start by washing and roughly chopping the tomatoes. Don’t worry about making them perfect; we’ll blend everything later!
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes. Your kitchen should smell delicious right about now!
4. Add the chopped tomatoes and stir well. Cook for about 10 minutes until the tomatoes are soft and juices are starting to release.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and boil the mixture. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
6. After simmering, remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves.
7. Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring to a regular blender), blend the soup until smooth. If you like a chunkier version, blend it less!
8. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
9. To make heart-shaped croutons, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the bread into heart shapes using a cookie cutter or knife.
10. Toss the shaped bread in olive oil, place them on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden.
11. Scoop some soup into your bowls, and top with the delightful heart-shaped croutons.
Get Creative in the Kitchen!
– Add a splash of cream at the end of cooking for a richer soup.
– Try roasting the tomatoes and garlic beforehand for an added depth of flavor.
– For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions.
– Serve with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a dollop of pesto for an extra treat.
I just know you’ll love making this Homemade Tomato and Basil Soup as much as I do! Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight, this soup never fails to warm the heart (and the tummy!). Please give it a try, and I’d love to hear how yours turned out. Happy cooking!