Welcome to your new favorite cozy dish! Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is simple and bursting with flavor. In this post, I’ll share an easy recipe that anyone can whip up. Whether you want a comforting meal or a delightful appetizer, this soup fits the bill. Grab your ingredients, and let’s cook up something delicious together! You’ll impress your family and friends in no time.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 (14-ounce) cans diced tomatoes (preferably fire-roasted)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
The main ingredients are simple and easy to find. Olive oil gives the soup a rich flavor. Onion and garlic add a savory base. Diced tomatoes bring sweetness and acidity. Vegetable broth helps create a comforting texture.
You will need sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Dried basil adds that classic flavor. Salt and pepper enhance all the tastes. Cream or coconut milk makes the soup creamy and smooth. Finally, fresh basil adds brightness and color.
Optional Add-ins
– Croutons
– Cheese (Parmesan or mozzarella)
– Additional spices (red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning)
If you want to get creative, consider add-ins. Croutons add crunch and texture. You can sprinkle cheese for a salty touch. Parmesan or mozzarella are great choices.
For a little heat, add red pepper flakes. Italian seasoning can boost the flavor, too. Mix and match these options to find what you love most.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large stock pot over medium heat.
2. Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté it until it turns translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Next, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 more minute until it smells good.
4. Now, pour in 2 cans of diced tomatoes (14 ounces each) and 1 cup of vegetable broth.
Cooking Process
5. Add 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything well.
6. Bring the mix to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes. This helps the flavors blend nicely.
7. Remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it is smooth. If using a regular blender, let the soup cool a bit first.
8. Place the blended soup back on low heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream (or coconut milk) and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil. Heat through for 5 minutes. Avoid boiling.
Final Touches
9. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt or pepper based on your taste.
10. For serving, use warm bowls. Top with a drizzle of olive oil, croutons, and a few fresh basil leaves for a nice touch.
For a full recipe, check out the details above. Enjoy your creamy tomato basil soup!
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To boost the taste of your creamy tomato basil soup, try these simple tips:
– Seasoning Adjustments: If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a touch of sweetness, add more sugar. A splash of balsamic vinegar can add depth, too.
– Using Fresh Herbs: Always use fresh basil if you can. Chop it just before adding it to keep the flavor bright. You can also mix in other fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for more layers of flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Blending and simmering are key steps for great soup.
– Properly Blend Soup: Use an immersion blender for smooth texture. If using a regular blender, let the soup cool a bit to avoid splatters. Blend in batches if needed.
– Ideal Simmering Time: Simmer your soup for at least 15 minutes. This time helps the flavors blend well. You can simmer longer for a deeper taste, but don’t rush it!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Prevent these mistakes to get the best soup.
– Overheating Cream: When you add cream, heat on low. Boiling can cause the cream to curdle.
– Insufficient Blending: Make sure to blend until smooth. Lumpy soup is not as pleasant to eat and can hide the rich, creamy texture you want.
For more detailed instructions, check out the full recipe.
Variations
Dietary Substitutions
You can easily switch this soup to fit your diet. For a vegan option, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It adds a nice creaminess and works well with the flavors. If you need a gluten-free option, check your vegetable broth and canned tomatoes to ensure they are gluten-free. Most brands are safe, but it’s good to double-check.
Flavor Variations
Want to spice things up? Add roasted red peppers for a sweet and smoky taste. Just blend them with the other ingredients. If you like heat, try adding chili flakes or hot sauce. Start with a small amount, then taste and adjust. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
Serving Variations
Creamy tomato basil soup pairs perfectly with grilled cheese. The melty cheese adds a rich bite to the creamy soup. You can also serve it with different types of bread. Try crusty baguette, soft rolls, or even garlic bread. Each will give you a new way to enjoy this classic soup. For the full recipe, check out the main section.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To keep your creamy tomato basil soup fresh, cool it down first. Place it in shallow containers. This helps it chill faster. Use airtight containers to prevent any smells from mixing in your fridge. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work best.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze creamy tomato basil soup for a tasty meal later. Let it cool completely before you freeze it. Pour the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as you can to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a pot over low heat. Stir often to keep it smooth.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your soup can last about 3 to 4 days. In the freezer, it stays good for about 3 months. Always check for signs of spoilage. If it smells off or has a strange color, it’s best to throw it out.
FAQs
How to make creamy tomato basil soup from scratch?
To make creamy tomato basil soup, start by heating olive oil in a pot. Add chopped onion and cook until soft. Then, stir in minced garlic and cook for a minute. Next, pour in canned diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Blend the soup until smooth, then stir in cream and fresh basil. Fresh ingredients, like basil and ripe tomatoes, add great flavor and nutrition.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes instead of fresh. Canned tomatoes are convenient and often cheaper. They are also picked at peak ripeness, which means they can taste just as good. Fire-roasted canned tomatoes give a nice smoky flavor. However, fresh tomatoes can add a vibrant taste. Choose based on your needs and what you have at home.
What can I serve with creamy tomato basil soup?
You can serve creamy tomato basil soup with several tasty sides. Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic choice. Pairing it with a green salad adds freshness. You could also enjoy it with crusty bread or garlic bread. For a twist, try some croutons on top of the soup for crunch.
Is this soup easy to make?
Yes, this soup is easy to make! The whole process takes about 30 minutes. Prep time is around 10 minutes, and cooking takes the rest. You just need to sauté, simmer, and blend. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or a quick lunch. You’ll impress your family and friends with this simple dish. For the full recipe, check the earlier section.
Creamy tomato basil soup is simple and satisfying. You start with key ingredients like olive oil, onion, and garlic, then add tomatoes and broth. Blend it all and finish with cream and fresh basil. Remember to adjust your seasonings for the best taste.
For a twist, try adding croutons or cheese. You can even explore variations like a vegan option. Proper storage is key for later enjoyment. This soup is easy to make and can be served with many sides. Enjoy your cooking!
