Dreamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe: Ina Garten’s Comfort Classic

Warm, comforting soups have a magical way of soothing the soul, especially when crafted with Ina Garten’s tomato basil soup recipe that speaks volumes of culinary elegance.

Fresh, ripe tomatoes burst with vibrant flavors that dance across your palate with each spoonful.

The simplicity of this classic dish belies its profound depth and richness.

Aromatic basil leaves whisper hints of summer’s bounty, creating a harmonious blend that feels both rustic and refined.

Each ingredient has been carefully selected to ensure maximum flavor and minimal complexity.

Robust and velvety, this soup promises to become a treasured staple in your kitchen repertoire.

Get ready to savor a bowl of pure comfort that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Calories: 150 kcal

Servings: 6

Everything You’ll Need for Ina Garten Tomato Basil Soup

• Fresh Tomatoes: Deeply concentrated flavor powerhouse that transforms with caramelized edges and sweet intensity.
• Olive Oil: Helps tomatoes roast evenly and adds silky richness to the base.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance natural tomato sweetness and create depth.

• Onions, Garlic: Aromatic foundation that builds complex, layered flavor profile for the soup.
• Butter: Adds creamy, luxurious texture and rounds out sharp edges of other ingredients.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Introduces subtle heat and vibrant warmth to the soup's character.

• Canned Tomatoes: Provides consistent tomato flavor and additional liquid body.
• Chicken Stock: Creates smooth, hearty liquid base with rich underlying taste.
• Fresh Basil, Thyme: Bright, herbaceous notes that elevate the soup's Mediterranean-inspired essence.

Kitchen Tools for Ina Garten Tomato Basil Soup

• Large Baking Sheet: Essential for roasting tomatoes evenly with olive oil.
• 8-Quart Stockpot: Perfect for sautéing onions and simmering soup base.
• Food Mill or Blender: Crucial for creating smooth, creamy soup texture.
• Sharp Knife: Needed for chopping onions and preparing ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring and mixing ingredients during cooking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Helps ensure accurate ingredient amounts.

How to Cook Ina Garten Tomato Basil Soup Easily

• Tomato Preparation

Handpick ripe, juicy tomatoes and spread them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven until they caramelize and develop a deep, rich flavor.

• Aromatic Foundation

In a large pot, gently sauté onions and garlic until they turn golden and release their sweet, inviting fragrance. Add a touch of butter and red pepper flakes for warmth and depth.

• Liquid Magic

Pour in canned tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and thyme. Introduce chicken stock to create a luscious base. Carefully transfer the roasted tomatoes, capturing all their concentrated essence.

• Simmering Symphony

Let the soup bubble gently, allowing flavors to mingle and intensify. The kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that promises comfort and deliciousness.

• Smooth Transformation

Blend the soup until silky smooth, removing any chunky bits. Taste and adjust seasonings, creating a perfectly balanced soup that sings with flavor.

• Serving Moment

Ladle the soup into warm bowls. Enjoy immediately or chill for a refreshing alternative. A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves makes a beautiful finishing touch.

Tomato Basil Soup Tips Straight from Ina’s Style

• Enhance the soup's richness by selecting ripe, in-season Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes. Roasting concentrates their natural sweetness and adds a beautiful caramelized depth that transforms the entire dish.
• Experiment with fresh herb variations like adding oregano, marjoram, or a pinch of rosemary to complement the basil. Fresh herbs provide vibrant layers of complexity that elevate the soup's overall taste profile.
• Stir in heavy cream, crème fraîche, or coconut milk for a luxurious, velvety consistency. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or a splash of milk to achieve a silky smooth texture without excessive richness.
• Store leftover soup in airtight containers for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months, making it perfect for quick future meals or unexpected dinner solutions.
• Top the soup with crispy pancetta bits, toasted pine nuts, fresh basil leaves, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Serve alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty artisan bread.

Great Ways to Serve Ina Garten Tomato Basil Soup

• Enhance Your Soup Experience
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top to add a vibrant color and burst of flavor.
• Pair with Crusty Bread: Serve alongside warm, toasted sourdough or rustic Italian bread for dipping and soaking up the rich tomato broth.
• Create a Creamy Twist: Swirl in a dollop of mascarpone or heavy cream to add luxurious texture and smooth out the soup's tanginess.
• Cheese Lover's Delight: Top with freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese for an extra layer of savory complexity.

Keep Ina Garten Tomato Basil Soup Tasting Fresh

• Batch Cook with Confidence: Whip up a large pot of this soup and enjoy multiple meals throughout the week. The rich flavors intensify as the soup sits, making it even more delicious on day two or three.
• Refrigerate Smartly: Store leftover soup in airtight containers for up to 4-5 days. Always cool the soup completely before transferring to storage containers to maintain food safety and optimal taste.
• Freeze for Future Enjoyment: Pour soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months, creating a quick and delicious meal option for busy days.
• Reheat Like a Pro: Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight, then gently warm in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching and restore the soup's creamy texture.

Velvety Ina Garten Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

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4.8 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Ina Garten’s tomato basil soup blends creamy richness with garden-fresh ingredients. Comforting flavors meld together, creating a classic dish perfect for chilly evenings or elegant dinner parties.

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Ingredients

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• 3 lbs (1.36 kg) ripe plum tomatoes, cut in half lengthwise
• 1 (28 oz) (794 g) canned plum tomatoes, with their juice
• 4 cups (120 g) fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1 qt (946 ml) chicken stock or water
• 2 cups (300 g) chopped yellow onions (2 onions)
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup plus 2 tbsps (90 ml) good olive oil
• 2 tbsps unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 ½ tsps freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

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Instructions

1. Roasting Preparation: Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Toss whole tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 45 minutes until deeply caramelized and intensely flavored.
2. Aromatic Base: In a large stockpot, sauté onions, garlic, butter, and red pepper flakes over medium heat for 10 minutes until onions turn golden and release a sweet fragrance.
3. Liquid Integration: Combine roasted tomatoes, canned tomatoes, basil leaves, thyme, and chicken stock into the pot. Merge all ingredients thoroughly, allowing the caramelized pan juices to infuse maximum depth.
4. Flavor Development: Bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 40 minutes, concentrating flavors and creating a rich, harmonious blend.
5. Texture Refinement: Puree the soup using a food mill or blender until smooth and velvety. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste profile.
6. Serving Suggestion: Present soup piping hot or chilled, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs or a cream drizzle for added elegance.

Notes

• Roast Tomatoes Strategically: Caramelize tomatoes at high heat to unlock deep, concentrated flavor and enhance natural sweetness, creating a rich taste foundation for the soup.
• Sauté Aromatics Patiently: Brown onions and garlic slowly to develop complex, sweet undertones that provide depth and complexity to the soup’s overall taste profile.
• Blend with Precision: Use a food mill or blender to achieve silky-smooth texture, ensuring no chunks disrupt the soup’s luxurious consistency.
• Temperature Flexibility: Enjoy the soup hot for comforting warmth or chilled for a refreshing summer alternative, making it a versatile recipe for any season.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 5mg