When the weather turns chilly, nothing beats a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup. This classic comfort food combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the freshness of basil, all blended into a velvety smooth, rich soup. Whether you’re enjoying it with a grilled cheese sandwich or on its own, this soup is guaranteed to warm you up and satisfy your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Tomato Basil Soup:
- Comfort Food Classic: A hearty, warm soup that’s perfect for cold days or when you want a comforting meal.
- Easy and Quick to Make: Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients.
- Vegetarian and Nutritious: Packed with tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, this soup is full of vitamins and antioxidants.
- Customizable: You can adjust the creaminess and seasoning to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and vegetable broth. Stir in the oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender to purée the soup directly in the pot, or transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just part of the soup.
Step 4: Add Cream and Basil
Once the soup is blended, return it to the heat and stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free version). Add the fresh basil leaves and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
Step 5: Adjust the Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, if desired. Add more salt, pepper, or basil to suit your preferences.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and extra fresh basil leaves for added flavor and color. Serve hot with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
- Use Fresh Tomatoes: If you have fresh tomatoes on hand, you can replace canned tomatoes with fresh ones. Roast them in the oven before adding them to the soup for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Make it Vegan: To make this soup dairy-free, simply swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or any plant-based cream.
- Add Extra Veggies: You can sneak in extra vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition without compromising flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, add less broth or simmer it for a longer time to reduce. For a thinner consistency, add more broth or water.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Meal Prep
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup stores incredibly well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep. It also freezes well, so you can make a big batch and store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 250
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
Please note that the nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient sizes and specific brands used.
Conclusion
Nothing says comfort like a bowl of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this easy-to-make soup will always hit the spot. With its rich flavor, creamy texture, and fresh ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
For more delicious soup recipes, visit our PleasyRecipes Blog.
