Tomato and basil soup

This comforting tomato and basil soup combines ripe cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and potatoes for a rich, hearty meal. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

20 Nov 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
2 cups potatoes
2 cups cherry tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato puree
3 cups chicken gravy
1/2 cup basil leaves
Tomato and basil soup

Tomato and basil soup is a classic and comforting dish that combines ripe cherry tomatoes and aromatic basil leaves for a heartwarming meal. This recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether it's a light lunch or a warming dinner. Follow these steps to create a delightful soup that will impress your loved ones.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Finely chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Peel and dice the potatoes.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Roughly chop the basil leaves, reserving a few whole leaves for garnish if desired.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon (14g) of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until they become soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Add Potatoes and Tomatoes:
- Add the diced potatoes and halved cherry tomatoes to the pot.
- Stir well to combine and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to start breaking down.
4. Incorporate Tomato Puree:
- Stir in 2 tablespoons (30g) of tomato puree.
- Mix well to ensure the puree is evenly distributed throughout the vegetables.
5. Add Chicken Gravy:
- Pour in 3 cups (600g) of chicken gravy.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Blend the Soup:
- Remove the pot from the heat.
- Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can blend the soup in batches using a countertop blender. If using a blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending and be sure to vent the lid to avoid pressure build-up.
7. Add Basil:
- Stir in ½ cup (3.50g) of chopped basil leaves.
- Blend again briefly to incorporate the basil into the soup.
8. Season and Serve:
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with additional basil leaves if desired.
9. Enjoy Your Tomato and Basil Soup!

With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this tomato and basil soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of fresh ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques makes this recipe a go-to for a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal. Enjoy your homemade soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete dining experience.

Tomato and basil soup FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftover tomato and basil soup?

Store leftover tomato and basil soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just ensure it's in a freezer-safe container, and it can last up to 3 months.

How can I adjust the thickness of my soup?

To thicken the soup, you can add more potatoes or let it simmer uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. If it's too thick, stir in some water or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute canned tomatoes for cherry tomatoes. Drain and crush them before adding to the pot. Use about 1-2 cups of canned tomatoes for a similar flavor.

What is the approximate baking or simmering time for this recipe?

The total cooking time for this soup is about 30-35 minutes. Simmer the mixture for 20-25 minutes after adding the chicken gravy, or until the potatoes are tender.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

To make this soup vegetarian or vegan, substitute the chicken gravy with vegetable broth or a similar plant-based gravy, and omit any non-vegan garnishes or condiments you may want to add.

Tips:

- Use ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. Their natural sweetness will enhance the taste of the soup.

- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken gravy with vegetable broth.

- Blend the soup to your preferred consistency. You can leave it chunky or blend it until smooth.

- If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.

- Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil before serving for an added touch of flavor and presentation.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 170kcal
Protein 4.08g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 3.87g
Sugar 6g
Fat 8g

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