SHREVEPORT, La. - January is National Soup Month, and what better way to embrace the season than with a comforting bowl of soup? There's something about a warm, hearty soup that feels like a hug from the inside out -- satisfying, nourishing, and perfect for chilly days.

Tomato basil soup is a comforting classic that will warm you up from the inside out. This simple yet delicious soup is full of rich, savory flavors and is the perfect dish to enjoy as we celebrate National Soup Month. So, grab your ingredients and let's get cooking!

Tomatoes are full of vitamins and antioxidants, such as vitamin C and lycopene, which help support your immune system and overall health. Lycopene is an antioxidant that can also help prevent prostate cancer. Paired with a creamy texture and the perfect balance of savory flavors, this soup is both comforting and nourishing.

Fire Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil

1 small onion, chopped

1 tbsp minced garlic

2 bay leaves

3 cans (14.5 oz each) fire roasted tomatoes

2 cups vegetable broth (I use low sodium)

2 tbsp brown sugar

1-2 tbsp chili garlic sauce (optional for added spice)

1/2-3/4 cup half and half

1/2 cup fresh basil (or 1 tbsp dried basil)

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

In a large pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil and chopped onion. Cook until the onion becomes fragrant and starts to soften, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the fire-roasted tomatoes, vegetable broth, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce (if using), and bay leaves to the pot. Stir to combine and bring to a boil. Let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Remove the bay leaves from the soup. Using an immersion blender (or regular blender), purée the soup until smooth or until it reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend it for a shorter amount of time.

Stir in the half and half, fresh basil (or dried basil), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to incorporate the flavors.

Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy! You can garnish with extra basil, a drizzle of cream, or some crispy croutons if desired.