Tomato Soup is the fastest way I know to sit down to something warm, silky, and satisfying after a busy day. Onions and garlic soften, crushed tomatoes and broth simmer, then the whole pot blends velvety with fresh basil and a gentle swirl of cream-yogurt—done in about half an hour.
This recipe checks every box: pantry-friendly, weeknight-quick, and bright with fresh herbs. It feels special without fuss, making it a natural fit for Healthy Soup Recipes and your favorite Fall Soups and Stews board. Keep it classic as written, or load it with extra veggies when you want a heartier Tomato Vegetable Soup vibe.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
- Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp sugar (optional)
- 3/4 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves
- 1/3 cup Greek yogurt or light cream
Instructions
- Start the Base: Heat oil in a medium pot over medium. Cook onion 5 minutes until soft; add garlic, dried basil, and pepper flakes; stir 30 seconds.
- Build Flavor: Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth; add sugar if needed. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer 12–15 minutes, uncovered, to reduce slightly.
- Blend & Brighten: Stir in fresh basil and blend until smooth and creamy.
- Finish: Off heat, whisk in Greek yogurt or cream. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve: Garnish with a few basil leaves and enjoy hot.
Health Benefits
Tomato-forward soups deliver antioxidants that support heart health, while basil contributes aromatic polyphenols. Using Greek yogurt boosts protein and keeps saturated fat modest. Extra-virgin olive oil adds beneficial monounsaturated fats.
Pro Tips
- Balance: If the soup tastes sharp, a pinch of sugar or a splash of broth rounds it out.
- Texture: Blend longer for a silkier finish; leave a little texture if you like rustic.
- Basil: Add basil right before blending to keep its color bright and flavor fresh.
Add-Ins & Variations
- Creamier: Whisk in 1–2 tbsp of grated Parmesan-style hard cheese alternative or more yogurt.
- Veg-Loaded: Simmer 1 diced carrot and 1 celery stalk with the onion for gentle sweetness.
- Herby: Finish with a drizzle of basil oil or extra-virgin olive oil and cracked pepper.
Storage & Reheat
Chill leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, thinning with a splash of broth if needed. Stir in the yogurt/cream after reheating for the smoothest finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with toasted sourdough, a crisp green salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich. For a buffet, ladle into mugs and top with a basil leaf for a neat presentation.
Pin-Worthy Takeaway
It’s the kind of back-pocket recipe you’ll rely on: quick, wholesome, and vividly flavored—perfect for boards like Healthy Soup Recipes, Fall Soups and Stews, and everyday Soup Ideas.
