Chilled Tomato Basil Soup

Name: Chilled Tomato Basil Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nourish & Glow Recipes

I absolutely adore this Chilled Tomato Basil Soup, especially during the warm months when tomatoes are at their peak. The combination of fresh tomatoes and aromatic basil creates a refreshing dish that's perfect for a light lunch or as a starter. I've experimented with various seasonings and have found that a touch of garlic and a splash of olive oil elevate the flavors beautifully. Trust me, once you try this soup, it will become a staple in your summer recipe collection.

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-02-04T17:21:27.929Z

When I first made this Chilled Tomato Basil Soup, I was taken aback by how simple yet flavorful it turned out. Using very ripe tomatoes from the farmer's market made all the difference in taste. I love a soup that doesn’t require cooking, making this one ideal for those lazy summer afternoons when you just want to blend and chill.

Another thing I discovered is that letting the soup sit for at least an hour in the fridge allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I often enhance it by garnishing with croutons and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an added depth. The contrast of cool soup with crunchy toppings is simply delightful!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing taste with the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity
Bright green basil adds a vibrant flavor and aroma
Easy to prepare and no cooking required

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using ripe, fresh tomatoes is crucial for achieving the best flavor in this Chilled Tomato Basil Soup. Peak-season tomatoes offer a natural sweetness and acidity that canned or out-of-season tomatoes simply can't replicate. When selecting your tomatoes, look for ones that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch, indicating ripeness. The color should be vibrant and deep, as this indicates their quality and flavor profile will be more robust.

Fresh basil plays a significant role in this recipe, contributing not only flavor but also aromatic qualities that elevate the dish. Aim to use basil that is bright green with no signs of wilting. If you're herb-sensitive or can't find fresh basil, consider substituting with fresh cilantro or mint for an intriguing twist, though these will change the soup's flavor profile.

Blending for the Perfect Consistency

When blending the soup, achieving the right texture is essential. A high-speed blender will give the smoothest results, but if you have a regular blender, blend in batches to prevent overflow. Start on a low setting and gradually increase the speed until the mixture is smooth and glossy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the ingredients a few times rather than blending continuously, allowing some bits of tomato to remain visible for added visual appeal.

Once blended, give the soup a taste test before chilling. This step is key, as flavors develop more while sitting. If the soup tastes a bit flat, you might need an extra dash of salt or a splash of red wine vinegar to brighten it. Adjusting these flavors helps create a balanced soup that will sing with freshness once chilled.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For serving, consider pairing the chilled soup with grilled cheese sandwiches or a fresh arugula salad on the side. This balance of the soup's refreshing qualities with hearty accompaniments will make for a satisfying meal. Additionally, you can impress guests by serving the soup in chilled bowls; this adds a touch of elegance and keeps the soup cool for longer.

If you want to switch things up, experiment with adding finely diced vegetables like cucumber or bell peppers for a delightful crunch. For a spicier version, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be blended in for heat. You might even try incorporating avocado for a creamier texture while still keeping it light and refreshing.

Ingredients

Gather the fresh ingredients needed for this delightful soup.

Ingredients

4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together to create a vibrant and delicious soup.

Instructions

Follow these steps to whip up this refreshing soup in no time.

Blend the Ingredients

In a blender, combine the chopped tomatoes, basil leaves, minced garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar. Blend until smooth.

Season and Chill

Taste the soup and season it with salt and pepper as needed. Transfer the soup to a bowl or container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Serve

Once chilled, serve the soup in bowls, garnishing with additional basil leaves and croutons if desired.

Enjoy this flavorful and refreshing soup on a hot day!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during blending. This will give the soup a delightful hint of heat.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Chilled Tomato Basil Soup can be made a day in advance, which allows flavors to deepen and meld together beautifully. After blending, store the soup in an airtight container. It’s best to consume it within two days for optimum freshness. Before serving, give it a good stir, as some separation may occur during storage, which is normal.

If you're planning on freezing the soup, avoid adding the basil until after thawing, as freezing can alter its texture and flavor. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or silicone bags, leaving space for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then blend in fresh basil before serving.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your soup ends up too watery after blending, it may be due to the tomatoes being overly juicy. To remedy this, put the soup in a pot and simmer on low heat until it reduces to your desired consistency. This method helps concentrate flavors and thickens the soup without losing its freshness.

Conversely, if the soup is too thick for your liking, you can thin it out by stirring in a little cold water or extra olive oil until it reaches your desired creaminess. Always adjust gradually to maintain the balance of flavors, as you don’t want to dilute the fresh tomato and basil taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

In addition to basil, you can experiment with other herbs. Fresh dill or oregano could provide interesting flavor shifts while still complementing the tomatoes nicely. For those avoiding garlic, omitting it or replacing it with shallots can add a milder onion taste without overpowering the soup’s freshness.

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using low-fat or no-fat olive oil or another oil like avocado oil. Many have different flavor profiles, so choose one that complements tomatoes without overwhelming them. Each substitution will bring a unique character to your chilled soup, making it versatile and personal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes, although fresh tomatoes yield a brighter flavor, quality canned tomatoes can work well for this recipe, especially during off-seasons.

→ How long can I store the soup in the fridge?

The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to stir well before serving.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it's best to do so without the garnishes. It will keep well in an airtight container for up to a month.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, a fresh salad, or crusty bread for dipping.