Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Flavorful and Simple Recipe

Are you ready to whip up a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup that warms the heart? This simple recipe brings together fresh ingredients and bright flavors. You’ll savor the rich taste without spending hours in the kitchen. In this post, I’ll share all the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and handy tips you need to create this delightful dish. Let’s dive into the art of making the perfect creamy tomato basil soup!

Ingredients

Detailed Ingredient List

- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 cans (14 oz each) of crushed tomatoes, preferably organic

- 1 ½ cups vegetable broth or stock

- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)

- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn into pieces

- Finely grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

I love starting with good ingredients. The olive oil gives a rich flavor. The onion and garlic add depth. I use organic crushed tomatoes for the best taste. Vegetable broth makes it hearty and warm.

The sugar balances the soup's acidity. Oregano adds an Italian touch. Salt and pepper enhance every bite. For a creamy finish, I add heavy cream. If you want it dairy-free, coconut cream works well too. Fresh basil brings brightness. Lastly, if you like, add Parmesan cheese on top for a savory finish.

Each ingredient plays a part in creating creamy tomato basil bliss. Choose fresh and high-quality items. The better your ingredients, the better your soup!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Aromatics

1. Sauté the Onion: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium onion, finely chopped. Cook for about 5 minutes. Stir often until the onion is soft and clear.

2. Add Garlic: Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes more. The garlic should smell good and turn a light gold. Be careful not to burn it.

Combining Main Ingredients

1. Stir in Main Ingredients: Now it’s time to add the main ingredients. Stir in 2 cans of crushed tomatoes and 1 ½ cups of vegetable broth. Add 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.

2. Season and Boil: Season the mix with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil. This step helps the flavors come together.

3. Simmer: Once it boils, reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend beautifully.

Blending and Finishing Touches

1. Blend Until Smooth: After simmering, remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it is silky and smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender.

2. Incorporate Cream and Basil: Return the pot to low heat. Add 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of torn fresh basil leaves. Stir gently until the soup is warm. Avoid boiling to keep the cream from curdling.

3. Final Taste: Taste your creamy tomato basil soup. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt or pepper based on your preference.

This simple process creates a delicious, creamy soup that warms the soul!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Flavor

Adjusting seasoning is key for great taste. Always start with a little salt and pepper. Taste your soup as you cook. If it needs more flavor, add a pinch of salt or pepper. To balance the acidity from the tomatoes, add one teaspoon of sugar. This will help mellow out the bright taste.

Equipment Recommendations

I love using an immersion blender for this soup. It allows me to blend right in the pot. This saves time and cuts down on dishes. If you don’t have one, a countertop blender works too. Just blend small amounts and return it to the pot.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation matters! Serve your soup hot in warm bowls. Add a swirl of cream on top for a nice touch. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Don’t forget a fresh basil leaf as a garnish. Pair your soup with crusty, toasted bread. This makes for a perfect meal!

Variations

Vegan and Dairy-Free Options

For a vegan twist, you can swap the heavy cream with coconut cream. This change keeps the soup creamy while adding a hint of sweetness. To do this, simply stir in 1 cup of coconut cream after blending the soup. The flavor remains rich and satisfying, yet completely dairy-free.

Gluten-Free Enhancements

If you need a gluten-free option, ensure your vegetable broth and any added seasonings are certified gluten-free. Most canned tomatoes are gluten-free, but always check the label. This way, everyone can enjoy a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup without worry.

Instant Pot Variation

Using an Instant Pot can save time. Start by using the sauté function for the onions and garlic. Add the crushed tomatoes, broth, sugar, and oregano. Seal the lid and cook on high for 10 minutes. Once done, use the quick release method. Blend the soup, then stir in the cream and basil. This method gives you a delicious soup in under 30 minutes!

Storage Info

Refrigerator Storage

To keep your creamy tomato basil soup fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let the soup cool to room temperature before sealing. This helps avoid condensation, which can alter the texture. Properly stored, the soup lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to save some soup for later, freezing is a great option. First, cool the soup completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes. This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Guidelines

To safely reheat your creamy tomato basil soup, pour it into a pot over medium heat. Stir it often to ensure even heating. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water. Heat until it is warm throughout, but do not let it boil. You can also use a microwave, reheating in short intervals and stirring in between. Enjoy your comforting bowl again!

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! To do this, you need about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes. First, blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds. Then, remove the skins and chop them. This method gives a fresh taste. Add them to the pot in place of canned tomatoes. Remember, fresh tomatoes may need a bit more cooking time to become soft.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

This soup lasts 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. Cool the soup before putting it in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.

Can I add other vegetables or protein?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for more flavor. For protein, try adding cooked chicken or beans. These additions make the soup heartier. Just remember to adjust the cooking time to ensure everything cooks well.

In this blog post, we explored how to make creamy tomato basil soup. We covered the key ingredients, starting with aromatics like onion and garlic. Then, we combined tomatoes, broth, and seasonings. After blending, we added cream and basil for flavor. Tips helped you adjust seasonings and pair the soup well. We also discussed variations, storage tips, and common questions.

With these simple steps, you can easily create a delicious soup at home. Enjoy your cooking adventure!