Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A Comforting Bowl of Flavor 🍅🌿🥣

1. Introduction

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s a classic like creamy tomato basil soup. This recipe elevates the humble tomato soup with the bright, fresh flavor of basil and a touch of creaminess that makes it absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a comforting lunch, this tomato basil soup is sure to be a hit. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make, using ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. In under an hour, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal. The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel warm and inviting! Get ready to enjoy a velvety smooth soup that’s bursting with flavor! If you’re looking for other easy dinner ideas, check out these dinner recipes.

2. Why This Recipe Works

This creamy tomato basil soup recipe stands out because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. Using high-quality canned tomatoes ensures a consistent, rich tomato flavor. The addition of fresh basil elevates the soup with a burst of freshness that complements the acidity of the tomatoes. A touch of cream adds a luxurious texture and richness, making it a truly comforting dish. It’s a symphony of flavors that dance on your tongue! The recipe is also highly adaptable – you can easily adjust the amount of basil or cream to suit your preferences. For those chilly evenings, a bowl of this soup paired with some crusty bread is pure bliss. If you’re a fan of hearty soups, you might also enjoy this Hearty Lentil and Potato Soup. The cooking method, which involves simmering the ingredients together, allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a more complex and satisfying soup. For another creamy soup option, you could explore this creamy potato soup recipe.

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece. Don’t worry, it’s all pretty standard stuff!

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (and don’t be shy with it!)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or substitute, as mentioned below)

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious creamy tomato basil soup.

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Keep an eye on the garlic to ensure it doesn’t burn. You want to build a flavorful base for your creamy tomato basil soup. The aroma of sautéing garlic and onions is one of life’s simple pleasures. Perhaps you’d rather use a slow cooker? Try this Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This is where the magic happens! This step is crucial for developing the rich taste of the basil soup recipe. During this time, the flavors will deepen and create a truly satisfying soup. For more soup inspiration, you could browse this collection of soup recipes.

Step 3: Blend for Smoothness

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in half of the fresh basil. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Be cautious when blending hot liquids. Blending ensures the creamy tomato soup has a velvety texture. A smooth, creamy texture is key to a truly enjoyable tomato soup. If you don’t have an immersion blender, a regular blender will work just fine, but be extra careful with the hot liquid.

Step 4: Add Cream and Basil

Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and the remaining fresh basil. Heat gently over low heat, being careful not to boil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Adding cream at the end gives the creamy tomato basil soup recipe its signature velvety finish. The fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma and flavor. Don’t be afraid to add a little extra if you love basil! For a truly gourmet experience, try using a high-quality heavy cream.

5. Tips for the Perfect Soup

Here are some tips to elevate your creamy tomato basil soup to the next level!

• Use High-Quality Tomatoes: The better the tomatoes, the better the soup. Opt for San Marzano tomatoes if possible.
• Fresh Basil is Key: Don’t skimp on the fresh basil. It adds a brightness and aroma that dried basil simply can’t replicate.
• Adjust the Cream: For a lighter soup, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add an extra pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Garnish Generously: Top your soup with extra fresh basil, a swirl of cream, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor and elegance.

For inspiration, check out this recipe by Tastes Better From Scratch.

6. Serving Suggestions

This creamy tomato basil soup is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with a grilled cheese sandwich or a crusty loaf of bread for dipping. There really are few things that are better suited than a grilled cheese for tomato soup! It also makes a great starter for a more elaborate meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad, like this spring pea salad, or a hearty pasta dish. Or, for something a little bit quicker, this quick spring pea salad recipe. Perhaps you might even consider a glazed ham as the main course.

7. Variations to Try

Want to mix things up? Here are some variations to try with your tomato basil soup!

• Roasted Tomato Basil Soup: Roast the tomatoes before making the soup for an even deeper, richer flavor.
• Vegan Tomato Basil Soup: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a vegan option.
• Spicy Tomato Basil Soup: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Tomato Basil Soup with Pasta: Add small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo to make it a heartier meal.

8. Storage and Reheating Instructions

Allow the tomato basil soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it halfway through to ensure even heating. This soup also tastes great as leftovers! To make the most of your leftovers you might also be interested in a Spinach Quiche or Korean ground beef bowl.

9. Conclusion

This creamy tomato basil soup recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its ease of preparation, coupled with its rich and comforting flavor, makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe simple and satisfying. This is a great recipe to keep handy all year-round!. So grab your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup that will warm you from the inside out!. Enjoy your homemade tomato basil soup!

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