Creamy Tomato Basil Soup brings together the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil in a comforting, velvety blend that warms both the body and soul. This delightful dish is simple to prepare and transforms ordinary ingredients into a cozy culinary experience. Each spoonful is a burst of savory goodness, making it the perfect meal for chilly evenings or when you’re in need of a satisfying and delicious bowl of soup.
Why We Love This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
You’ll find that Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a staple that resonates with many food lovers. The harmonious combination of sweet tomatoes and aromatic basil creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and refreshing. The addition of cream or coconut milk adds an indulgent twist that transforms the soup into a rich and creamy delight. Plus, this soup is incredibly versatile. You can pair it with a simple grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic lunch or serve it as an elegant starter for dinner. No matter the occasion, this soup is sure to bring warmth to your table.
Ingredients about Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious soup. Gather these fresh ingredients to ensure that you get the best flavor possible.
List of ingredients with measurements
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Directions
Making Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Here are the step-by-step directions to help you create this superb dish.
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about five minutes or until the onion is soft and translucent. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.
- Now it’s time to add the beauty of the tomatoes. Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes along with the vegetable broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes. This simmering period helps the flavors to meld beautifully.
- When the soup has simmered, it’s time to make it smooth and creamy. You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or transfer the mixture to a regular blender. Blend until the soup reaches a silky texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you don’t need to blend it completely—leave some tomato bits for added texture.
- Return the pureed soup to the pot and reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk and stir well. This step gives the soup its rich creaminess, so don’t rush it! Heat gently until the soup is warmed through, but do not let it boil.
- Once heated, add the freshly chopped basil to the pot. Basil infuses a beautiful aroma and taste into the soup. Next, season the soup with salt and pepper according to your personal taste. Remember, you can always adjust these seasonings to suit your preferences.
- Your Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is now ready! Serve it hot and enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors in every spoonful.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
When it comes to serving Creamy Tomato Basil Soup, your options are plentiful. This soup is perfect for a cozy meal at home or as a starter at a dinner party. Consider these serving suggestions:
- With Crusty Bread: Serve the soup alongside slices of crusty bread or a warm baguette that you can dip into the soup. This adds a satisfying crunch and completes the meal.
- With a Side Salad: Pair the soup with a refreshing garden salad. The crispiness of the greens provides a nice contrast to the creamy texture of the soup.
- Topped with Croutons: For an extra touch, sprinkle some homemade or store-bought croutons on top of the soup. They add a delightful crunch and enhance the overall experience.
- Garnished with Extra Basil: A few sprigs of fresh basil on top of the soup not only look appealing, but they also intensify the basil flavor.
- In a Bread Bowl: For a fun and creative twist, serve your soup in a bread bowl. This makes the dining experience enjoyable and minimizes cleanup.
Expert Tips: Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
To take your Creamy Tomato Basil Soup to the next level, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh tomatoes and basil whenever possible. Fresh ingredients can elevate the taste of your soup significantly compared to canned alternatives.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more heavy cream or coconut milk. Conversely, for a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cream used.
- Enhance the Flavor: Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat to the soup. This will create a nice balance with the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Make Ahead: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator. You can easily prepare it in advance and reheat it for a quick weeknight dinner.
- Blend Carefully: If using a regular blender, be cautious when blending hot liquids. Allow the soup to cool slightly and blend in batches if necessary to prevent splattering.
How to Store Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Storing your Creamy Tomato Basil Soup properly extends its shelf life and keeps it fresh. Here’s how:
- Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
- Freezing: If you have leftovers, you can freeze the soup for later. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.
Variation of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
There are plenty of delightful variations to explore with Creamy Tomato Basil Soup. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and flavor. Simply sauté them with the onion and garlic in the beginning.
- Spicy Twist: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your soup an extra kick.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in some grated parmesan or mozzarella cheese to create a cheesy version of your soup. This adds a delightful flavor and makes it even more comforting.
- Pasta Add-in: For a heartier meal, add cooked small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini. This transforms the soup into a filling dish that satisfies your hunger.
- Herb Variations: Try substituting or adding other herbs, like thyme or oregano, for a unique twist on flavor without losing the essence of this classic soup.
FAQ
What is Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting soup made from tomatoes, fresh basil, and cream or coconut milk, creating a rich and flavorful dish.
How long does it take to make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?
The overall preparation and cooking time for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is around 30-40 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal option.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh tomatoes, use approximately 2 pounds and chop them up. The flavor will be even more vibrant.
How can I enhance the flavor of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?
Try adding herbs, spices, or other vegetables when sautéing the onion and garlic to add depth to the flavor of your soup.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Just use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and ensure that your broth is vegetable-based.
Enjoy making and savoring your Creamy Tomato Basil Soup! It’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans diced tomatoes, undrained (14.5 ounces each) Adds the bulk of flavor
- 1 cup vegetable broth For a rich base
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk Use coconut milk for a vegan option
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped For freshness and flavor
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust as per taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the undrained diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 10 minutes.
- Blend the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth, or leave some chunks for texture.
- Return the blended soup to the pot, reduce heat to low, and stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Heat gently until warmed through, without boiling.
- Add the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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