If there is a more comforting dish than a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup, we haven’t found it yet. This classic soup combines the savory goodness of ripe tomatoes with the aromatic touch of fresh basil, all blended into a smooth and creamy delight. Perfect as a starter or a light meal, this soup doesn’t just tantalize your taste buds—it also envelops you in warmth, making it an ideal choice for any cozy meal at home.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 28 oz can of whole tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments
- Large saucepan
- Blender or immersion blender
- Chopping board
- Knife
- Wooden spoon
How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup – Step By Step
Step 1:
Heat the Olive Oil.
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. This step is crucial because it sets the base of your soup, adding a layer of richness and flavor from the outset. Make sure your oil is hot enough before moving to the next step; the sizzling sound should guide you here.
Step 2:
Sauté Onion and Garlic.
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step infuses the oil with aromatic flavors, which will permeate through the soup, elevating its taste profile significantly. Stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning.
Step 3:
Simmer the Tomatoes.
Pour in the canned tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 20 minutes to meld all the ingredients, enhancing the overall flavor depth.
Step 4:
Blend the Soup.
Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture directly in the pot or transfer it to a blender. Blend until the soup is silky smooth. This makes the soup creamy and thick without any added thickeners.
Step 5:
Add Cream and Basil.
Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Adding the cream at the end ensures it stays rich and lush, while the fresh basil imparts an earthy aroma that cuts through the creaminess beautifully. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
Step 6:
Serve the Soup.
Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with a few basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil for a picturesque finish.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
For a delightful presentation, serve your creamy tomato basil soup with a side of crusty bread or grilled cheese, perfect for dipping. Add a light salad to your table for a refreshing contrast, and top each bowl with fresh basil leaves and a few croutons for an added crunch.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To ensure your soup reaches its full potential, use the ripe, quality canned tomatoes you can find. If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute with dried, though fresh is always preferable for its vibrant flavor. Blending is key to achieving the creamy texture, so don’t skip this step. For a vegan option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream.
Pumped-Up Protein: High-Protein Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
For those needing a protein boost, consider integrating a scoop of protein-rich beans, like white beans, into your creamy tomato basil soup. These not only contribute to the protein content but also add a complementary texture that works harmoniously with tomatoes.
Alternatively, you can stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt into each serving. This not only raises the protein levels but also adds a subtle tang that detours from the ordinary, elevating your soup’s complexity.
Slim & Trim: Low Carb Deliciousness – Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
For a low-carb twist, replace canned tomatoes with fresh, vine-ripened tomatoes. The natural sugar content is lower, and they bring a richer flavor that canned cannot match. Instead of regular vegetable broth, opt for a homemade version using keto-friendly vegetables to maintain the carb levels lower.
You can also omit the heavy cream and replace it with almond milk to slash even more carbs while maintaining the essence of a creamy texture.
Storage Instructions
Your creamy tomato basil soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days in an airtight container. To enjoy this dish even later, portion it into freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to three months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stove to preserve the soup’s texture and flavors.
FAQs
- Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, dried basil is a suitable alternative. Use one-third of the amount as fresh, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. - Is this soup gluten-free?
Indeed, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary preferences. - Can I make this soup vegan?
Sure, use coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy cream to keep it vegan while retaining that creamy texture. - How can I spice it up?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of a kick. - Are there substitutes for canned tomatoes?
Fresh tomatoes work well if peeled and seeded. You might need to adjust cooking time for these to break down properly.
Summing Up: Share Your Thoughts!
This creamy tomato basil soup holds the power to comfort and delight with each flavorful spoonful. Whether you are enjoying it on a chilly evening or adding it to your dinner party menu, it’s sure to be a hit. If you try this recipe, let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to share your delightful recreations on social media using the hashtag #TomatoBasilSoupLove. Your feedback and variations bring joy to our creative kitchen community!
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- olive oil
- onion
- garlic
- canned tomatoes
- vegetable broth
- heavy cream
- fresh basil leaves
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot before moving forward.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until onion becomes translucent and garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in canned tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
- Blend the soup with a blender until smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream and fresh basil. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve in bowls, garnished with basil and a drizzle of olive oil.