Tomato basil soup is a timeless classic that never fails to comfort and satisfy. Inspired by the beloved Nordstrom recipe, this version brings together ripe tomatoes and fresh basil for a rich and flavorful experience. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or quick lunches when you want something warm and nourishing.
We love how this soup balances the sweetness of tomatoes with the aromatic touch of basil, creating a dish that’s both simple and elegant. Plus, it’s easy to make with pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Nordstrom Tomato Basil Soup, we carefully select fresh and pantry essentials that blend beautifully to capture the classic taste. Below are the key ingredients that deliver the rich flavor and comforting aroma this soup is known for.
Fresh Tomatoes
Selecting the right tomatoes is crucial for a robust and vibrant soup. We recommend:
- 4 cups fresh ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped (Roma or vine-ripened)
- Alternatively, 2 cans (28 oz each) whole peeled tomatoes for convenience
Choosing ripe tomatoes ensures natural sweetness and depth.
Fresh Basil Leaves
Basil is the heart of this recipe, lending a bright herbal note:
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed and roughly chopped
Use fresh basil to maximize aroma and authenticity. Avoid dried basil for this recipe.
Garlic and Onions
These aromatics build the soup’s savory foundation:
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Sautéed until translucent and fragrant, these create a warm base that enhances the tomato and basil notes.
Broth and Seasonings
To balance and enhance flavors, we add:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken or vegetable broth | 3 cups | Adds savory depth |
| Salt | 1 to 1.5 teaspoons | To taste |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | For subtle heat |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon | Balances acidity of tomatoes |
Season gradually and adjust based on your palate.
Cream or Milk (Optional)
For a silky texture and richer flavor, add:
- ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
Adding cream is optional but recommended for a smooth, luxurious finish that complements the fresh basil tones.
We like to stir this in at the end of cooking for the best texture.
These ingredients come together in harmony, allowing us to recreate the iconic Nordstrom Tomato Basil Soup in our own kitchens with confidence and ease.
Equipment Needed
To prepare the Nordstrom Tomato Basil Soup perfectly, having the right equipment ensures smooth cooking and vibrant flavors. Below are the essential tools we rely on for this recipe.
Soup Pot or Dutch Oven
A heavy-bottomed Soup Pot or Dutch Oven is crucial for even heat distribution. We use it to gently sauté aromatics like garlic and onions, and to simmer the tomatoes and broth until the flavors meld beautifully. Choose one with at least a 4 to 6-quart capacity to allow room for stirring and boiling without spilling.
| Feature | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Material | Enameled cast iron or stainless steel |
| Size | 4 to 6 quarts |
| Heat Compatibility | Suitable for stove and oven use |
Blender or Immersion Blender
To achieve that signature silky smooth texture of the Nordstrom Tomato Basil Soup, a blender is indispensable. We prefer an immersion blender for its convenience, allowing us to puree the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, a countertop blender works well but requires transferring in batches.
- Immersion Blender: Blends directly, less cleanup.
- Countertop Blender: Ensures smooth puree but involves handling hot liquids carefully.
Knife and Cutting Board
Precision in chopping fresh ingredients like ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil enhances the soup’s flavor and mouthfeel. We use a sharp chef’s knife paired with a sturdy cutting board to efficiently prep:
- Onions and garlic minced finely
- Tomatoes diced
- Basil leaves torn or chopped
This simple yet essential equipment ensures our prep work is quick and safe, preserving the integrity of each ingredient for the perfect Nordstrom Tomato Basil Soup.
Prep Work
Before we begin cooking our Nordstrom Tomato Basil Soup, it’s crucial to complete some foundational prep steps. These ensure our soup has the rich flavors and perfect texture we’re aiming for.
Preparing Tomatoes
Start by selecting fresh ripe tomatoes or drained canned tomatoes. If using fresh, we need to blanch and peel them to avoid any tough skins in the soup.
- Blanch tomatoes: Score the bottom of each tomato with a shallow “X.”
- Place tomatoes in boiling water for 30-45 seconds until skins loosen.
- Transfer immediately to ice water to stop cooking.
- Peel skins off gently using your fingers or a paring knife.
- Chop peeled tomatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces to maintain hearty texture before blending.
If using canned tomatoes, drain excess liquid for a thicker soup base but reserve it to adjust consistency later if needed.
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Score Tomatoes | Cut shallow “X” at bottom | Helps loosen skin for peeling |
| Boil | 30-45 seconds | Blanch skins for easy removal |
| Ice Bath | Immediate after boiling | Stops the cooking process |
| Peel & Chop | Remove skins & cut into 1-inch chunks | Avoids tough skins, ensures texture |
Chopping Garlic, Onions, and Basil
To unlock full flavor, we finely chop our aromatics and herbs carefully.
- Garlic: Peel each clove. Mince finely for even distribution of its pungent, savory depth.
- Onions: Peel and halve, then chop into small, uniform pieces to cook evenly and develop sweetness without raw bites.
- Basil: Rinse leaves under cold water and gently pat dry. Stack leaves and slice thinly, chiffonade-style, to release aromatic oils while maintaining a fresh herbal brightness.
Proper chopping of these ingredients enhances the soup’s complexity and balance—key to the classic Nordstrom Tomato Basil Soup we are recreating.
Directions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create our Nordstrom Tomato Basil Soup with vibrant flavor and silky texture.
Sautéing the Aromatics
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy-bottomed soup pot over medium heat.
- Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent and soft.
- Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 1 minute, releasing the aromatic base essential to our soup.
Cooking the Tomatoes
- Add 4 cups of prepared fresh tomatoes (blanched, peeled, and chopped) or 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) of diced tomatoes, drained.
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth to create a balanced liquid base.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook uncovered for 20 minutes to concentrate the flavors.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh tomatoes | 4 cups | Blanched, peeled, chopped |
| Canned diced tomatoes | 2 cans (14.5 oz) | Drained |
| Chicken/Vegetable broth | 2 cups |
Blending the Soup
- Remove the pot from heat.
- Using an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth and silky.
- For a finer texture, transfer soup in batches to a blender and blend until completely smooth. Return to pot.
Adding Basil and Seasonings
- Tear and add 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves to the soup, stirring gently to infuse fresh herbal aroma.
- Season with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and 1 teaspoon sugar to balance acidity and enhance sweetness.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the basil and seasonings to meld perfectly.
Optional: Adding Cream for Smoothness
- For a richer, creamier soup, reduce heat to low.
- Slowly stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk until fully incorporated.
- Heat gently for 2 minutes without boiling to maintain silky texture and luxurious mouthfeel.
“The addition of cream transforms this classic into a velvety delight,” making it ideal for cozy dinners or elegant lunches.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Nordstrom Tomato Basil Soup experience we recommend thoughtful garnishing and complementary side dishes that highlight the soup’s rich flavors and creamy texture.
Garnishing Ideas
Adding the right garnishes enhances both presentation and flavor. Consider these simple yet impactful options:
- Fresh basil leaves: Tear or chiffonade for a vibrant herbal aroma that reinforces the soup’s signature note.
- A drizzle of high-quality olive oil: Adds a silky richness and beautiful visual contrast.
- A swirl of cream or crème fraîche: Creates a luxurious texture and visually appealing pattern.
- Toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts: Introduce subtle crunch and a nutty depth.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts slightly on the warm soup lending a savory umami boost.
- Cracked black pepper: Freshly ground for a sharp and aromatic finish.
These garnishes allow us to customize each bowl, matching the mood and occasion while accentuating the distinctive tomato basil flavor profile.
Suggested Side Dishes
Pairing our Nordstrom Tomato Basil Soup with the perfect side can turn a simple meal into a satisfying feast. Consider these tried-and-true pairings:
| Side Dish | Description | Complement to Soup |
|---|---|---|
| Classic grilled cheese | Crispy golden bread with melted cheddar or American | Provides buttery crisp texture contrasting the creamy soup |
| Garlic bread | Crusty baguette slices brushed with garlic butter and toasted | Adds aromatic crunch and richness |
| Mixed green salad | Light salad with vinaigrette | Offers refreshing balance to the soup’s richness |
| Caprese salad | Sliced mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze | Complements the tomato basil essence |
| Crispy croutons | Cubed bread toasted with herbs | Adds texture and savory notes |
We find that these sides perfectly complement the rich, velvety qualities of this tomato basil soup while enhancing the overall dining experience. Whether for a light lunch or relaxed dinner, pairing it thoughtfully will bring out the best in every spoonful.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy our Nordstrom Tomato Basil Soup at its freshest and most flavorful, proper make-ahead and storage techniques are essential. Here’s how we can prepare, store, and reheat the soup to maintain its rich texture and vibrant taste.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Cook Ahead: We can make the soup up to 3 days in advance. After blending the soup to a smooth, velvety consistency, allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Cool Properly: Transfer the soup to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly to prevent bacterial growth. Cooling within 1 hour ensures food safety.
- Flavor Enhancement: Interestingly, the flavors of this tomato basil soup deepen and meld beautifully when refrigerated overnight. This makes it an excellent candidate for preparing ahead.
Refrigeration Storage Guidelines
| Storage Duration | Temperature | Container Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 3 Days | 34-40°F | Airtight glass/plastic | Maintain airtight seal to preserve aroma |
- We recommend using glass containers for better odor retention and reduced staining.
- Always label the container with the date of preparation to track freshness easily.
Freezing Tips for Extended Storage
- Portioning: Divide the soup into single-serving or family-sized portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zipper bags.
- Leave Headspace: Leave about 1 inch of space at the top of containers to allow for expansion.
- Freeze Duration: Tomato basil soup freezes well for up to 3 months without compromising texture or flavor.
| Freezing Duration | Container Type | Thawing Method |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 3 Months | Freezer-safe plastic/glass | 24 hours in refrigerator or gentle stovetop warming |
Reheating Instructions
- Stovetop: Reheat soup over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or scorching.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dish at medium power, stirring every 1-2 minutes to ensure even heating.
“Avoid boiling the soup during reheating as it can diminish the delicate balance of basil and tomato flavors.“
Tips to Maintain Soup Quality After Storage
- Add a splash of fresh cream or a few fresh basil leaves after reheating to revive creaminess and fragrance.
- Stir well before serving to recombine any separated ingredients.
- If the soup thickens too much after refrigeration, thin out with a small amount of broth or water to achieve desired consistency.
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, we can enjoy our Nordstrom Tomato Basil Soup anytime with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Conclusion
This Nordstrom Tomato Basil Soup recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a rich and comforting dish that’s perfect any time of year. With fresh tomatoes and basil at its core, it offers a vibrant flavor that’s both satisfying and elegant. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, the ease of preparation and versatility make it a go-to recipe in our kitchen. Having the right tools and following the prep tips ensures a smooth cooking experience and a delicious result every time. Enjoy experimenting with garnishes and sides to make it your own signature soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in the Nordstrom Tomato Basil Soup?
The key ingredients include fresh ripe tomatoes (or canned), fresh basil leaves, garlic, onions, chicken or vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Optional ingredients are cream or milk for a silkier texture.
How do I prepare fresh tomatoes for the soup?
Blanch and peel fresh tomatoes to remove the tough skins, then chop them into 1-inch pieces for better texture and flavor in the soup.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, canned tomatoes work well. Drain any excess liquid to ensure a thicker, richer soup base.
What kitchen tools do I need to make this soup?
You’ll need a heavy-bottomed soup pot or Dutch oven, an immersion blender, a sharp chef’s knife, and a sturdy cutting board.
How is the soup made from start to finish?
Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, add tomatoes and broth, simmer the mixture, blend until smooth, then stir in fresh basil and seasonings. Add cream if desired.
What are some good garnishes and side dishes for this soup?
Garnish with fresh basil, olive oil, cream, nuts, Parmesan cheese, or black pepper. Pair it with grilled cheese, garlic bread, salads, or crispy croutons.
Can I make the soup ahead of time?
Yes, the soup can be made up to three days ahead, refrigerated in airtight containers. Flavors improve overnight.
How do I store and reheat leftover soup?
Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave; add fresh cream or basil after reheating.