Few soups feel as classic — or as comforting — as tomato basil. This creamy tomato basil soup has all the rich, tangy-sweet flavor of ripe tomatoes, balanced with the freshness of basil and finished with a luscious, velvety texture.
It’s quick to make, budget-friendly, and tastes incredible on its own or paired with a golden, crispy grilled cheese sandwich. A true comfort food duo that never goes out of style.
💡 Why This Recipe Works
- Simple pantry ingredients. Uses everyday staples like canned tomatoes, onions, and garlic.
- Creamy without dairy. Coconut milk or cashew cream makes it silky smooth.
- Bright and balanced. Sweet tomatoes + fresh basil + a touch of acidity = perfect flavor.
- Quick & cozy. Ready in about 30 minutes.
🛒 Ingredients
(Serves 4–6 bowls)
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (14 oz / 400 g each) whole or crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
To Finish
- 1 cup coconut milk, oat cream, or cashew cream
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Garnishes
- Extra basil leaves
- Croutons or grilled cheese croutons
- A swirl of cream
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook another 1 minute.
2. Add tomatoes & broth
Stir in canned tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes to let flavors meld.
3. Blend smooth
Remove from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until silky (or carefully transfer to a blender in batches).
4. Add creaminess
Return soup to the pot. Stir in coconut milk (or cream of choice) and fresh basil. Simmer for 5 more minutes. Taste and adjust with balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, if desired.
5. Serve
Ladle into bowls and garnish with basil, croutons, or a swirl of cream.
🔑 Tips for Best Results
- Balance acidity. A pinch of sugar or splash of balsamic cuts the sharpness of tomatoes.
- Go fresh. Use ripe fresh tomatoes in summer — roast them first for deeper flavor.
- Blend carefully. For ultra-smooth soup, strain after blending.
- Make it creamy. Use full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for best texture.
- Pair it. Nothing beats grilled cheese alongside this soup.
🌟 Variations to Try
- Roasted Tomato Basil Soup: Roast tomatoes, garlic, and onion before blending.
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Protein Boost: Stir in white beans before blending for a heartier soup.
- Italian Twist: Add oregano, basil, and top with vegan parmesan.
🍽 Storage & Meal Prep
- Refrigerator: Keeps well up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave; stir in a splash of broth if thickened.
✨ Creamy, cozy, and bursting with flavor, this tomato basil soup is the kind of dish that makes even an ordinary night feel special. Pair it with grilled cheese, and you’ve got pure comfort in every bite.
