Savor the Flavor: Garden Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Author:

Sarah Castillo

Published:

09/12/2023

Updated:

09/22/2023

Savor the Flavor with this Garden Tomato Basil Soup Recipe that will tantalize your taste buds. Prepared with fresh tomatoes and basil, this homemade tomato basil soup is perfect for enjoying the flavors of summer as the seasons transition. Roasting the tomatoes enhances their flavors and caramelizing onions adds depth, resulting in a vegan and dairy-free soup that is still creamy and comforting. You can customize it by adding cream, coconut milk, or parmesan cheese. The soup is freezer-friendly and can be garnished with a drizzle of cream and fresh basil.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Garden tomato basil soup is a delicious and easy-to-make soup that takes advantage of fresh tomatoes and basil.
The soup involves roasting the tomatoes to enhance their flavors and caramelizing onions for added depth.
The soup is vegan and dairy-free, but still creamy and comforting, and can be customized with the addition of cream, coconut milk, or parmesan cheese.
The soup freezes well and can be garnished with a drizzle of cream and fresh basil.

A Taste of Summer: Fresh Tomato Basil Soup

Dive into the taste of summer with a fresh tomato basil soup that bursts with flavor and nutrients. This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy, as it is made with fresh ingredients and has no added preservatives or artificial flavors.

The secret to the flavorful tomato basil soup lies in the roasted tomatoes, onions, and garlic. Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the soup, making it a comforting and nourishing dish.

Basil is added to the soup to provide a fresh and vibrant taste. It is important to use fresh basil for the best results, as it adds a unique flavor and aroma that cannot be replicated with dried basil.

This easy tomato basil soup can be made with fresh tomatoes, which are roasted to bring out their sweetness, or with canned tomatoes for a quick and easy version. It is a great way to use up any extra tomatoes from the garden or the farmers’ market.

To make the soup creamy and smooth, cream is added to the soup. It is important to temper the cream by slowly bringing it up to the same temperature as the hot soup, in order to avoid curdling. Alternatively, plant-based cream can be used for a vegetarian version.

This healthy tomato basil soup can be stored in the refrigerator for several days and freezes well, making it an ideal dish for meal prep and busy weeknights. It is typically served with a drizzle of cream and a sprig of fresh basil, along with slices of toasty sourdough bread for dipping.

Overall, this flavorful tomato basil soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that captures the flavors of summer. Try making it at home and savor the taste of fresh, homemade goodness.

Creamy and Smooth: Blending the Perfect Tomato Basil Soup

To create a lusciously creamy tomato basil soup, it’s all about the perfect blend of roasted tomatoes, onions, garlic, and cream. This soup is not only a comforting and delicious dish, but with the right ingredients, it can also be a healthy and vegetarian option.

To start, roast fresh tomatoes to intensify their flavor and bring out their sweetness. Add onions and garlic to give depth to the soup. Once roasted, blend the tomatoes, onions, and garlic with vegetable broth to create the soup base. To ensure a smooth texture, blend the ingredients in batches and strain through a fine-mesh sieve.

For a creamy texture, add cream to the soup. Be sure to add the cream slowly and whisk constantly to prevent it from curdling. Alternatively, use plant-based cream for a vegan version. The creaminess of the soup is balanced with balsamic vinegar, thyme, and salt and pepper.

To finish the soup, add fresh basil leaves. The basil adds a vibrant and fresh taste to the soup and complements the sweetness of the roasted tomatoes.

This vegetarian tomato basil soup is perfect for those looking for a meatless option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. It’s also a great way to showcase the fresh tomatoes and basil from your garden. Serve the soup hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil, and pair it with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread.

Leftover tomato basil soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for later use. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Bursting with Flavor: Adding Fresh Basil to the Soup

Enhance the deliciousness of your homemade tomato basil soup by adding fresh basil leaves, infusing the soup with their vibrant flavor and aroma. Fresh basil has a sweet and slightly peppery taste that, when added to the soup, takes it to a whole new level.

One recipe suggests making a Creamy Roasted Tomato-Basil Soup with chunks of tomato. The process involves roasting fresh tomatoes, onions, and garlic, then blending them together with cream and finishing it off with fresh basil for a burst of flavor. Another recipe emphasizes the use of fresh roma tomatoes, garlic, onion, carrot, thyme, and vegetable broth to create a vegan tomato basil soup. The tomatoes are roasted to enhance their flavor, and the soup is garnished with fresh basil leaves.

When adding fresh basil to the soup, it’s important to add it towards the end of the cooking process to avoid overcooking it. Simply chop the basil leaves into small pieces and add them to the soup, allowing them to infuse their flavor for a few minutes before serving.

Variations and serving suggestions include adding coconut milk, parmesan cheese, or butter for added richness, and serving the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich or crusty bread. To avoid curdling the soup when adding cream, simply temper the cream with a ladleful of warm soup before adding it to the pot. When reheating the soup, avoid boiling it to prevent curdling.

Store the soup in the refrigerator or freezer for future consumption. When ready to eat, reheat the soup gently on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Garnish the soup with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil for a touch of elegance.

Tips and Tricks: Making Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes

Get the most out of your homemade tomato basil soup by using fresh, vine-ripened tomatoes, bursting with natural sweetness and vibrant flavors. Roma tomatoes work particularly well due to their rich, meaty texture and intense taste. To prepare the tomatoes, rinse them thoroughly and cut them into quarters.

Roasting the tomatoes, onions, and garlic is a great way to enhance their flavors and create a smooth and creamy soup. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, add salt and pepper to taste, and roast them in the oven at 400°F for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.

When blending the vegetables, it is important to temper the cream before adding it to the soup to prevent curdling. Simply heat the cream in a separate saucepan until it is warm to the touch and then add it to the soup gradually, stirring constantly. Using heavy cream can also help prevent curdling.

For added freshness and flavor, add a handful of fresh basil leaves to the soup. To properly incorporate the basil, tear the leaves into small pieces and stir them into the soup just before serving.

The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for several days or frozen for later use. When reheating, be sure to do so slowly to preserve the flavors. To garnish the soup, drizzle a small amount of cream over the top and add a sprig of fresh basil. Enjoy with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Customize the soup to your liking by adding other ingredients such as milk or cream, parmesan cheese, or butter. The process involves roasting the tomatoes, sautéing onions and garlic, simmering with vegetable broth, and blending everything together with basil. Overall, making tomato soup with fresh tomatoes is a simple and satisfying option for a comforting meal.

Creamy Goodness: Adding Cream without Curdling

Achieve a velvety smooth and creamy tomato basil soup by adding cream without the risk of curdling. Here are some tips to ensure your tomato soup remains creamy and smooth:

Tempering the Cream: Slowly warming up the cream to the same temperature as the hot soup is key. To do this, take a small amount of hot soup and add it to a dish with the cold cream, stirring constantly. This will help the cream adjust to the temperature of the soup without curdling.

Avoid Boiling: It’s crucial not to boil the soup after adding the cream, as this can also lead to curdling. The acidity and heat in the soup can cause the cream to curdle, so it’s best to keep the heat turned down when adding the cream.

Use Heavy Cream: Using heavy cream rather than low-fat alternatives can also help prevent curdling. The higher fat content in heavy cream helps to protect the proteins in the milk from denaturing and curdling.

Reheating the Soup: When reheating the creamy tomato soup, it’s important to heat it on medium-low or low until hot, but never let it boil. Boiling the soup can cause the cream to curdle, resulting in a less smooth and creamy texture.

Freezing the Soup: If you’re looking to freeze the creamy tomato soup, it’s possible to do so. However, it’s recommended to pour the soup into a freezable container with a lid and thaw it completely before reheating. Reheat slowly over low heat to ensure even reheating.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a creamy and delicious homemade tomato basil soup without any curdling. For a vegan version, try substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream to achieve the same creamy goodness.

“A good soup is like a hug in a bowl.” -Unknown

Storing and Freezing: Enjoying Tomato Basil Soup All Year Round

Extend your enjoyment of homemade tomato basil soup by learning how to properly store and freeze it, ensuring maximum flavor and convenience. This delicious soup is made with fresh ingredients such as tomatoes, onions, garlic, and basil. To enhance the flavor of the soup, the tomatoes are roasted.

When making this soup, it is important to temper the cream before adding it to the hot soup to avoid curdling. After adding the cream, it is best to avoid boiling the soup as this can also cause the cream to curdle.

Tomato basil soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, it is recommended to thaw the soup completely and reheat it slowly over low heat to preserve the flavors.

To garnish the soup, drizzle a little bit of heavy cream on top and add a sprig of fresh basil for added flavor.

Enjoy this delicious soup all year round by properly storing and freezing it. Homemade tomato basil soup is a healthy and flavorful dish made from fresh ingredients, bursting with the taste of summer.

Perfect Presentation: Garnishing the Soup

Elevate the presentation of your garden tomato basil soup by adding a touch of elegance with delightful garnishes. When it comes to garnishing, the possibilities are endless. A Creamy Roasted Tomato-Basil Soup is the perfect canvas to experiment with different flavors and textures.

The addition of fresh basil to the soup provides a vibrant and refreshing taste. To incorporate basil, chop it up and sprinkle it over the soup just before serving. Alternatively, you can use a basil-infused olive oil to drizzle on top for added flavor.

To create a visually appealing presentation, consider placing a grilled cheese sandwich or rustic bread alongside the soup. You can also add a dollop of pesto or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a tangy taste.

Don’t forget about the soup’s texture and color. A drizzle of heavy cream or crème fraîche can add a creamy and smooth finish. Toppings like croutons, chives, and bacon bits can provide a satisfying crunch and a pop of color.

Whether you prefer a classic or a contemporary twist on your tomato basil soup, garnishing is a great opportunity to experiment with different flavors and textures. So, let your creativity run wild and enjoy the delicious taste of your flavorful tomato basil soup.

garden tomato basil soup garnished with basil leaves

The Perfect Pairing: Tomato Basil Soup and Sourdough Bread

Enhance the deliciousness of your homemade tomato basil soup by serving it alongside warm, crusty sourdough bread, perfect for soaking up every last drop. The combination of the creamy roasted tomato-basil soup and the tangy sourdough bread is a classic pairing that is sure to satisfy.

The soup’s flavor is elevated by using fresh tomatoes that are roasted to perfection with onions and garlic. Adding fresh basil gives the soup a bright and herbaceous note that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.

To make the soup, simply blend the roasted tomato mixture with cream to achieve a creamy and smooth texture. If you want to make it vegetarian, use plant-based cream instead.

When adding cream to the soup, avoid curdling it by tempering it with hot soup and not boiling it. This will ensure that the soup stays smooth and creamy.

Store any unused soup in the refrigerator or freezer for a later date. When ready to serve, reheat the soup gently and garnish it with a drizzle of cream and some fresh basil.

Pair the soup with slices of warm sourdough bread, toasted to perfection, for a comforting and satisfying meal. The bread’s crusty exterior and chewy interior are the perfect complement to the soup’s creamy texture, while the tanginess of the bread adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the tomatoes.

This tomato basil soup recipe is easy to make and provides a warm and comforting meal that can be enjoyed all year round. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a dinner party, this soup and bread combination is sure to impress.

Conclusion

Indulge in the delectable flavors of summer with this garden tomato basil soup, a bowlful of pure deliciousness that will leave you craving more. The fresh and wholesome ingredients used in this recipe make it a healthy choice that can be enjoyed guilt-free. By following the simple steps of roasting, blending, and seasoning, you can create a flavorful soup that is sure to impress your taste buds.

What’s great about this soup is that it can be easily customized to suit your preferences. If you’re looking for a creamier texture, you can add in some coconut milk or parmesan cheese. And if you’re a vegetarian or vegan, you can use plant-based cream instead of dairy cream. Serve the soup with some grilled cheese, crusty bread, or even a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storing and freezing this soup is also a breeze, making it a convenient option for meal prep or quick dinners. And while it’s perfect for the transition from summer to fall, its comforting flavors make it a go-to option all year round.

In conclusion, homemade tomato basil soup is a delicious and nourishing dish that is easy to make and customize. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a bowl of pure comfort that is sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and don’t be afraid to experiment with your own variations. Bon appetit!

FAQ

Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?

A: Yes, you can use canned tomatoes as a substitute. However, using fresh tomatoes will give the soup a brighter and more vibrant flavor.

Q: Can I make this soup without cream?

A: Absolutely! If you prefer a dairy-free or lighter version, you can skip the cream or use a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream.

Q: How long can I store the soup in the refrigerator?

A: The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool it completely before storing it.

Q: Can I freeze the soup?

A: Yes, you can freeze the soup for future use. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: How should I reheat the soup?

A: To reheat the soup, simply transfer it to a pot and heat it gently over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.

Q: Can I add other vegetables or herbs to the soup?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, or experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste.

Q: Can I make this soup in advance for a dinner party?

A: Yes, you can make the soup in advance and refrigerate it. Just remember to reheat it gently before serving, and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Can I Use Ina Garten’s Basil Mayonnaise in My Garden Tomato Basil Soup Recipe?

Add a twist to your classic garden tomato basil soup recipe with a dollop of flavor-packed ina garten’s basil mayonnaise recipe. The creamy and herby mayonnaise will elevate the taste profile of your soup, adding an extra layer of deliciousness to each spoonful. Give it a try and savor the delightful combination of fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and Ina Garten’s basil mayonnaise.