Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Simple and Flavorful Recipe

Looking for a cozy bowl of goodness? My Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is simple, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. With just a few fresh ingredients and easy instructions, you can enjoy a warm, comforting dish in no time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for friends, this recipe shines with vibrant flavors and creamy texture. Let’s dive into the deliciousness together!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced

- 2 cans (28 oz each) whole peeled tomatoes, including their juice

- 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

I love using extra virgin olive oil. It adds a nice depth to the soup. Onions and garlic give us a sweet and savory base. Whole peeled tomatoes are the star, providing rich flavor. Vegetable broth brings everything together with a warm touch.

Seasoning and Garnishing

- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped (plus extra for garnish)

- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for a flavor boost)

Sweetness from sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Dried oregano adds an earthy touch. Salt and pepper are essential for taste. Fresh basil gives a bright flavor, while balsamic vinegar can add a nice kick.

Dairy Options

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1 cup coconut cream (dairy-free option)

Heavy cream makes the soup rich and creamy. If you want a dairy-free option, coconut cream works well. It adds a subtle sweetness and keeps the soup smooth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Base

1. First, take a large pot and heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.

2. Once the oil shimmers, add 1 medium onion, finely chopped. Sauté it until it softens and turns translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for one more minute until the garlic smells great.

4. Carefully pour in 2 cans of whole peeled tomatoes, including their juice. Then add 3 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth.

5. Stir in 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Simmering the Soup

1. Bring the mixture to a boil. This should take just a few minutes.

2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend well.

Blending and Finishing

1. After 20 minutes, it’s time to puree the soup. You can use an immersion blender for this. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender.

2. Blend until the soup is completely smooth. Be careful with the heat; steam can escape.

3. Return the blended soup to the pot. Warm it over low heat.

4. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of roughly chopped fresh basil. Heat through for about 5 minutes. Avoid boiling the soup again.

5. If you like, add 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

6. Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra basil leaves for a fresh touch.

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor

To make your soup even better, try adding some optional ingredients. A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a nice tang. You can also toss in some red pepper flakes for a little heat. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can bring brightness to the dish.

Techniques matter too. Sauté your onions and garlic until they are soft. This step adds depth to the flavor. Always taste your soup as it cooks. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your taste.

Blending Options

You can choose between an immersion blender or a standard blender. An immersion blender lets you blend right in the pot. It's easy and less messy. If using a standard blender, blend in small batches. Always leave the lid slightly open. This helps steam escape and keeps you safe.

Presentation Tips

Serving your soup well makes it more inviting. Ladle it into warm bowls. Drizzle some cream on top for a beautiful finish. Sprinkle fresh basil on each bowl for a pop of color.

Pair your soup with crusty bread or a warm baguette. This makes for a perfect meal. Enjoy your creamy tomato basil soup with these simple tips!

Variations

Dairy-Free Alternatives

For a creamy soup without dairy, try using coconut cream. It adds a rich texture and a hint of sweetness. Start with one cup of coconut cream in place of heavy cream. If you want more options, you can use cashew cream or almond milk. Both keep the soup creamy while being dairy-free.

Adding Vegetables

You can make this soup even better by adding vegetables. Carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini are great choices. Chop them small and add them when you sauté the onions and garlic. For a smooth finish, you can puree these veggies with the soup. This gives a thicker texture and extra flavor.

Different Herbs & Spices

While basil is tasty, feel free to switch it up. You can use thyme, parsley, or oregano instead. If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some cayenne pepper. This will give your soup a nice kick and make it even more exciting.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

Store your leftover creamy tomato basil soup in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and safe. If you place it in the fridge, it stays good for about 3 to 4 days. Always let the soup cool down before sealing it.

Freezing

To freeze the soup, use freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. This soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, take it out and thaw it in the fridge overnight. You can also use the microwave for a quick thaw.

Reheating

For reheating, you can use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, heat it on low and stir often. If using the microwave, use a microwave-safe bowl, and heat it in short intervals. Make sure to stir between heats. To avoid separation, mix the soup well after reheating. If you notice it looks a bit different, blend it again for a smooth texture.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can easily make this soup ahead of time. To prepare, follow the recipe steps but stop before adding the cream and basil. Let the soup cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the soup gently on the stove over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and basil once it's warm. This way, the flavors stay fresh and bright.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, fresh tomatoes work well, but you should adjust the recipe. Use about 2-3 pounds of ripe tomatoes. First, peel and chop them. You can blanch them in boiling water for easy peeling. Then, add them to the pot with the broth. Fresh tomatoes may need more cooking time to break down. Keep an eye on the consistency and adjust as needed.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

This recipe is already vegetarian, but check your ingredients. Use low-sodium vegetable broth to keep it meat-free. Ensure the heavy cream is from a vegetarian source. If you want a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream. Both options keep the soup rich and creamy while fitting vegetarian diets. Enjoy your flavorful bowl without any worries!

In this post, we explored the simple yet flavorful way to make creamy tomato basil soup. From fresh ingredients like garlic and basil to options for dairy-free cream, you have all you need to create a rich dish. We discussed important steps, storage tips, and variations to fit your taste. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting. So, get in your kitchen and enjoy making this classic soup!