Fresh Tomato Basil Soup
A vibrant and comforting fresh tomato basil soup with rich flavors, perfect for a light lunch or starter, highlighting the sweetness of tomatoes and aromatic basil.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large frying pan.
- Saute chopped onion and minced garlic for about 5 minutes.
- Add sliced tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes.
- Add basil leaves, honey, bay leaf, and tomato paste.
- Reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes.
- Puree the mixture in a blender and strain.
- To puree, add cornstarch and chicken stock.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes over low heat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with julienne tomatoes and basil.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk after pureeing the soup. If fresh tomatoes aren't available, canned tomatoes can be a great substitute. Always taste and adjust the seasoning; fresh basil will add a unique flavor, but feel free to experiment with other herbs from Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fresh tomato basil soup with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal. It pairs wonderfully with Chicken With Lemon And Olives or a simple salad for a light lunch. Garnish with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken stock or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Tomato Basil Soup contains roughly 1517 calories, with 34g protein, 254g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (239% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (186% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1549mg per serving (67% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
While fresh basil is preferred for its vibrant flavor, you can use dried basil in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more potent. Add them earlier in the cooking process to allow their flavors to infuse the soup.
How can I make this soup vegan?
To make this soup vegan, simply replace chicken stock with vegetable broth and omit the honey, or substitute it with agave syrup or maple syrup. The soup will still be delicious and full of flavor without animal products.
Can I freeze this tomato basil soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove, adding a bit of stock if needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).