There’s just something so cozy about a warm bowl of soup, especially on a chilly day, right? My go-to is definitely this Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup. The way the rich, savory tomatoes blend with the freshness of basil and the crunch of veggies creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to beat. I remember one rainy afternoon, I whipped this up, and the aroma filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. It’s hearty, nourishing, and perfect for curling up with on the couch. Trust me, once you try this soup, it’ll become your favorite comfort food, too!
Ingredients for Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup
To whip up this delicious Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup, gather these fresh, vibrant ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
These simple ingredients come together to create a bowl of warmth and comfort, bursting with flavor! You can even swap in your favorite veggies if you’re feeling adventurous!
How to Prepare Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup
Making this Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup is as easy as pie—well, if pie were a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness! Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle when you add the veggies!
- Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. This is where the magic begins!
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the canned diced tomatoes. Give it a good stir to combine.
- Now, add the carrots, celery, and zucchini. Bring everything to a boil—watch it bubble and fizz!
- Once boiling, stir in the dried basil, along with salt and pepper to taste. This is your chance to make it just right for your palate.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all those fantastic flavors to meld together. Yummy!
- Finally, remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves just before serving. This adds a pop of color and fresh flavor!
And there you have it! Just remember, if you’re using any other vegetables, make sure to chop them to a similar size for even cooking. Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Here’s why you’re going to adore it:
- Hearty and satisfying, it fills you up while keeping things light and healthy.
- Made with fresh ingredients, this soup bursts with vibrant flavors that dance on your taste buds.
- Super easy to prepare, even on the busiest of days—just chop, sauté, and simmer!
- Customizable to your liking, so you can sneak in any veggies you have on hand.
- Perfect for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy it all week!
Tips for Success with Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup
To make sure your Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are a few of my favorite tips:
- Don’t hesitate to mix up the veggies! Spinach, bell peppers, or even sweet corn can add a different twist.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup after simmering, then stir it back in. It’s a game-changer!
- For added depth of flavor, try roasting your tomatoes and garlic before adding them to the pot.
- Remember to taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and basil to suit your personal preference.
- And if you have any leftovers, make sure to cool them down before storing them in airtight containers to keep it fresh!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup is super easy! Just let it cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to airtight containers. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy it throughout the week. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it! Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers and leave some space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy a bowl, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick. Yum!
Nutritional Information for Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup
Curious about the nutritional goodness of this Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup? Here’s a rough estimate per serving: about 150 calories, 5 grams of fat, 3 grams of protein, and 25 grams of carbohydrates. These values can vary based on your ingredient choices, so feel free to adjust them to fit your dietary needs!
FAQ About Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup
Got questions about making the perfect Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries:
- Can I use different vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorites like bell peppers, spinach, or even sweet potatoes. Just keep an eye on cooking times.
- Is it possible to make this soup vegan? Yes, it’s already vegan as is! Just ensure your vegetable broth is plant-based.
- How can I make it spicier? If you like some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños while sautéing the onions.
- What can I serve with this soup? A crunchy baguette or a simple green salad pairs wonderfully! Or, keep it cozy with some grilled cheese on the side.
- Can I freeze leftovers? For sure! Just store them in freezer-safe containers, and they’ll be good for up to three months.
Don’t hesitate to get creative; this soup is a blank canvas for your culinary imagination!
Print
Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup Comfort in Just 30 Minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and flavorful tomato basil vegetable soup packed with fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add diced tomatoes.
- Add carrots, celery, and zucchini, and bring to a boil.
- Stir in dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil leaves.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite vegetables.
- Can be blended for a smoother texture.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Sodium: 400 milligrams
- Fat: 5 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Fiber: 6 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Keywords: Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup