Welcome to the world of cozy comfort with a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup. Perfect for chilly days or even when you need a feel-good meal, this classic soup is velvety rich with just the right hint of freshness from basil. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or the main dish, it’s bound to be a hit.
Ingredients
Equipments
To make the perfect creamy tomato basil soup, you’ll need a saucepan, a sharp knife, a cutting board, a blender or immersion blender, and a ladle.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup – Step By Step
Step 1:
Dice the fresh tomatoes and set them aside. Having all your ingredients prepared and ready is key to a seamless cooking experience. Make sure your tomatoes are ripe and juicy for the best flavor.
Step 2:
Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing them until they become translucent. This builds the fundamental flavor base of your soup, releasing aromatic notes.
Step 3:
Add the diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir everything together, ensuring the tomatoes are coated well. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
Step 4:
Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer. The broth not only enhances the flavor but also allows the tomatoes to break down beautifully.
Step 5:
Stir in fresh basil leaves. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. The basil adds a fragrant freshness that transforms the soup’s flavor profile.
Step 6:
Add cream while stirring to achieve a luxurious texture. Heat gently as you integrate the cream to ensure a smooth consistency without curdling.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
For serving, garnish each bowl with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dollop of cream. Sprinkle fresh basil or Parmesan cheese on top for an added burst of flavor. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal experience.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Ensure your tomatoes are at their peak of ripeness for the best flavor. The entire flavor profile of this dish hinges on the quality of your tomatoes. For a touch of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes. And if you’re short on time, canned tomatoes can be a convenient substitute. Just ensure to balance the acidity with a pinch of sugar.
A Protein-Packed Twist on Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Looking to add more protein to your meal? Consider incorporating white beans or cooked chicken breast to the soup mix before blending. Not only do these additions increase protein content, but they also provide extra creaminess and a hearty texture.
Low-Carb Variations for Your Tomato Basil Soup Cravings
Aiming for a lower carb version? Swap the cream with coconut milk for a delicious and silky alternative. Incorporate more fresh herbs to boost flavor without extra carbs. Decreasing the portion of tomatoes slightly and using tomato paste can further control carb intake.
Storage Instructions
You can store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Remember to reheat the soup on low heat to preserve its creamy texture.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
A1: Yes, canned tomatoes can be a convenient substitute. Opt for whole peeled or diced tomatoes for the best results.
Q2: How do I prevent the cream from curdling?
A2: Introduce the cream while stirring and allow it to heat gently. Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cream for a smooth consistency.
Q3: Can I make this soup vegan?
A3: Absolutely! Use coconut milk or a vegan cream substitute in place of dairy cream to make the soup vegan-friendly.
Q4: What can I use instead of fresh basil?
A4: If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil can be used—start with a lower quantity and adjust to taste.
Share the Delight of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup!
This creamy tomato basil soup is a testament to the simplicity and comfort that a bowl of soup can provide. Whether you have feedback or unique twists to share, we’d love to hear from you. Remember to share the recipe with friends and family, and make sure to drop us a comment below on how your creations turned out!
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ripe tomatoes
- onion
- garlic
- vegetable broth
- cream
- bunch fresh basil
- olive oil
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Dice the fresh tomatoes and set them aside.
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing them until they become translucent.
- Add the diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir everything together, ensuring the tomatoes are coated well. Let it simmer until the tomatoes soften.
- Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer.
- Stir in fresh basil leaves. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth.
- Add cream while stirring to achieve a luxurious texture.