Welcome to your next kitchen adventure! In this post, I’ll share a foolproof recipe for creamy tomato basil soup that’s rich in flavor and comfort. With simple steps and easy ingredients, you’ll create a hearty dish perfect for any meal. Whether you are seeking a cozy lunch or a gourmet dinner, this soup will satisfy your hunger and taste buds. Let’s dive into the deliciousness of creamy goodness!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
– Olive oil and aromatics
– Start with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This oil gives the soup a rich flavor. I add a medium onion, chopped finely. This builds a strong base. Don’t forget 3 minced garlic cloves for that wonderful aroma!
– Tomatoes and broth
– Use 2 cans of crushed tomatoes, about 14 oz each. These tomatoes bring sweetness and depth. Add 1 cup of vegetable broth for a warm and hearty texture. A teaspoon of sugar helps balance the acidity.
– Cream and herbs
– For creaminess, add ½ cup of heavy cream (or use coconut cream for a vegan option). Freshness comes from 1 cup of chopped basil leaves. This herb brightens the soup!
Optional Ingredients for Variations
– Vegan alternative options
– To keep it vegan, stick with coconut cream. You can also use vegetable broth instead of regular broth. This keeps the flavors bold while being plant-based.
– Garnishes and sides
– Consider garnishing with extra basil leaves. A drizzle of olive oil adds a nice touch. Serve with crusty bread for dipping. It makes the meal complete!
Equipment Needed
– Cooking utensils and pot
– Grab a large pot for cooking. A wooden spoon helps mix the ingredients well. You’ll also need a chopping board and knife for prepping your veggies.
– Blender or immersion blender
– To blend the soup, you can use a regular blender. An immersion blender works well too. This tool gives you smooth soup in just a few minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Base
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 medium onion, chopped. Sauté it for about 4-5 minutes. You want the onion to soften and turn translucent. Next, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until it smells really good.
Now, it’s time to add flavor. Pour in 2 cans of crushed tomatoes, 1 cup of vegetable broth, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir this mix well. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 20 minutes. This slow cook helps the flavors blend together nicely.
Blending the Soup
After your soup has simmered, take it off the heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s smooth. If you don’t have one, you can carefully transfer it to a regular blender in batches. Once smooth, return the pot to low heat. Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chopped fresh basil. Add 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for a nice touch. Heat this through for 5 more minutes. Be sure to taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving the Soup
When you’re ready to serve, ladle the soup into warm bowls. For a special touch, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil on top. This makes the soup look nice and inviting. I love to pair it with crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for dipping!
For more details, check out the Full Recipe, which includes everything you need to create this creamy tomato basil bliss.
Tips & Tricks
Essential Cooking Tips
To make your creamy tomato basil soup just right, focus on the texture first. Blend the soup until it is smooth and creamy. If you prefer a bit of chunkiness, blend only half. This gives a nice contrast in texture.
For flavor, use fresh herbs whenever you can. Fresh basil adds a bright note that dried herbs can’t match. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. A dash of balsamic vinegar at the end brightens the flavors too.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake is overcooking the soup. Cooking it too long can dull the flavors. Aim for about 20 minutes after adding the tomatoes and broth.
Another mistake is not balancing the acidity. Tomatoes are acidic, so add a teaspoon of sugar to help balance it out. This small step makes a big difference in the taste.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
For leftovers, cool the soup quickly. Put it in a shallow container to speed up cooling. Once cool, cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. It will last for about three to four days.
When you reheat, do it gently on the stove over low heat. Stir often to keep it from sticking. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to life. Enjoy your creamy tomato basil soup again with these easy tips!
Variations
Different Creamy Tomato Soup Recipes
You can tweak creamy tomato basil soup in many fun ways. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives the soup a nice heat. If you like a bit of spice, try this simple addition. You can also use a slow cooker or an Instant Pot. These methods save time and keep the soup warm for longer. Just follow the same steps, but adjust the cooking times.
Dietary Modifications
If you need a gluten-free option, you are in luck! This soup is naturally gluten-free since it does not use flour. For those who want a dairy-free or vegan version, switch heavy cream with coconut cream. This keeps the soup rich and creamy while fitting your diet. You can also add more fresh herbs to enhance the flavor without dairy.
International Twists
Take your creamy tomato basil soup on a global journey. Adding herbs like cilantro or cumin gives it an Indian flair. You can also use basil and thyme for a French twist. Each herb changes the taste, making it fun to explore. Try different spices to find your favorite version. Each region has unique tastes. Enjoy making this soup with your own creative spin!
For the full recipe, visit the recipe section.
FAQs
Common Questions about Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. After cooking, let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for about three days. When you are ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
How do I thicken tomato soup?
To thicken tomato soup, you can add a few options. One way is to blend in some cooked potatoes. Another method is to add a bit more heavy cream. If you want a quick fix, use cornstarch mixed with water. Stir this mix in while cooking to thicken it up.
Nutritional Information
Calories and nutritional breakdown per serving
Each serving of creamy tomato basil soup is about 300 calories. It offers a good balance of fat, carbohydrates, and protein. The heavy cream adds richness but also calories. If you use coconut cream, it can be dairy-free while keeping the calories similar.
Health benefits of tomatoes and basil
Tomatoes are packed with vitamins. They help boost heart health and lower bad cholesterol. Basil is not just tasty; it has anti-inflammatory properties too. Together, they create a dish that supports good health.
Best Pairings and Serving Suggestions
What to serve with creamy tomato soup?
Creamy tomato soup pairs well with many sides. A classic choice is grilled cheese sandwiches. The crunch and meltiness balance the soup’s creaminess. You can also serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a light meal.
Recommended wine or drink pairings
For drinks, a light white wine, like Pinot Grigio, works great. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon. This adds a refreshing twist and complements the flavors nicely.
For the complete cooking directions, check out the Full Recipe.
Full Recipe
Complete Cooking Directions
To make creamy tomato basil soup, follow these steps:
1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Heat it over medium heat.
2. Sauté Onion: Add 1 medium chopped onion. Cook it for 4-5 minutes until it is soft and clear.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 1-2 minutes until you smell the garlic.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add 2 cans (14 oz each) of crushed tomatoes, 1 cup of vegetable broth, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Stir it all together.
5. Simmer the Mixture: Bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 20 minutes. This helps the flavors mix well.
6. Blend the Soup: After 20 minutes, take the pot off the heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully use a regular blender in batches.
7. Return to Heat: Put the pot back on low heat. Now stir in ½ cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of chopped fresh basil, and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. Heat it for 5 more minutes. Taste it and add more seasoning if needed.
8. Serve the Soup: Remove the pot from heat. Let it cool a little before serving.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the soup in warm bowls. You can add more fresh basil leaves on top. A drizzle of olive oil adds a nice touch. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping.
This creamy tomato basil soup is rich and full of flavor! Enjoy every spoonful!
In this post, we explored making creamy tomato basil soup. We covered essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. Remember, you can adjust the recipe to suit your taste. Don’t forget to add fun variations like spices or dietary options. Cooking this soup can be simple and rewarding. Enjoy crafting your perfect bowl. Your culinary adventures start now!
