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Easy 15-Minute Fresh Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Easy 15-Minute Fresh Tomato Basil Soup Recipe - featured image

This quick and easy tomato basil soup comes together in just 15 minutes using fresh tomatoes, garlic, onion, and basil. It’s creamy without cream, bright without bitterness, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (about 900g) fresh Roma or plum tomatoes, cored and roughly chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup (240ml) low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the tomatoes: Wash tomatoes, remove cores, and cut into rough 1-inch chunks (about 6 cups). Leave skins on for Roma tomatoes.
  2. Heat the oil: Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add olive oil. Heat until shimmering, about 30 seconds.
  3. Sauté the aromatics: Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly.
  4. Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in chopped tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir to combine. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Simmer: Let soup simmer uncovered for 5-7 minutes until tomatoes soften and break down slightly. Stir occasionally.
  6. Add basil and seasonings: Remove pot from heat. Stir in fresh basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let sit for 30 seconds.
  7. Blend until smooth: Use an immersion blender to puree soup directly in the pot until smooth, about 1 minute. If using a regular blender, work in batches, holding lid down with a towel, and start on low speed.
  8. Taste and adjust: Taste soup and adjust seasoning. Add balsamic vinegar (if using) for extra brightness.
  9. Serve immediately: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, or black pepper. Serve hot with crusty bread or grilled cheese.

Notes

Don’t overcook the tomatoes—5 to 7 minutes is the sweet spot for fresh flavor. Use ripe but firm tomatoes. If using a regular blender, never fill more than halfway and vent the lid to release steam. For a thinner soup, add extra broth after blending. For a thicker soup, simmer longer or add a tablespoon of tomato paste. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: tomato basil soup, fresh tomato soup, 15-minute soup, easy tomato soup, quick soup recipe, vegetarian soup, vegan soup