![For my creamy tomato basil soup, I use simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you need: - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 medium onion, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 2 cans (14 oz each) crushed tomatoes - 2 cups vegetable broth - 1 teaspoon sugar - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped These ingredients create a rich base that bursts with flavor. The olive oil adds a nice depth, while the onion and garlic form the aromatics. Crushed tomatoes give the soup its heartiness, and the heavy cream provides that creamy texture we all love. Fresh basil adds a vibrant note that brightens each spoonful. To elevate my soup, I often use a few garnishes. These add visual appeal and extra flavor: - Croutons - Additional basil sprigs - Cream drizzle Croutons add a delightful crunch. Fresh basil sprigs enhance the aroma, and a drizzle of cream makes it look extra special. I know some folks might want to tweak the recipe. Here are a few options: - Use coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version. - Low-sodium broth works well for those watching salt intake. - Fresh herbs bring a brighter taste, but dried herbs work too in a pinch. These substitutions can help you customize the soup to fit your dietary needs or taste preferences. Just remember, each change adjusts the overall flavor, so keep that in mind! If you want the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. 1. Cooking onions and garlic Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 chopped medium onion. Cook it for about 5 minutes, or until it turns clear. Next, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 1 more minute. You want to smell the garlic but not burn it. 2. Adding tomatoes and broth Now, it’s time to add in the main ingredients. Pour in 2 cans of crushed tomatoes. Add 2 cups of vegetable broth, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat. Let it simmer for 20 minutes. This helps the flavors come together nicely. 1. How to puree the soup After simmering, take an immersion blender and blend the soup until it is smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully pour the soup into a regular blender. Do this in batches if needed. Make sure to leave space to avoid spills. 2. Incorporating heavy cream and basil Return the pureed soup to the pot over low heat. Gradually stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Let it warm through, but do not bring it to a boil. Finally, mix in 1 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. 1. Best practices for serving Serve the hot soup in warm bowls. A drizzle of extra cream on top adds a nice touch. A sprig of fresh basil will make it look beautiful. 2. Pairing with bread or salads This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. You can also add croutons on top for extra crunch. Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite sides. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. - Adding spices or other vegetables: You can boost taste by adding spices like red pepper flakes or smoked paprika. For more depth, try adding chopped carrots or bell peppers while cooking the onions. - Adjusting creaminess and thickness: If you want a creamier soup, add more heavy cream. For a thicker texture, let the soup simmer longer or add a little cornstarch mixed with water. - Using an immersion blender vs. regular blender: An immersion blender is easy to use right in the pot. It saves time and reduces mess. A regular blender can also work but remember to blend in batches and let the soup cool a bit first. - Proper simmering to develop flavors: Simmering the soup for at least 20 minutes is key. This allows the flavors to mix well. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - Make-ahead suggestions: You can make this soup a day ahead. Let it cool, then store it in the fridge. The flavors will deepen overnight. - Freezing portions for later: Freeze the soup in airtight containers. It stays fresh for up to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge when you want to eat it. {{image_2}} You can make creamy tomato basil soup healthier with a few simple swaps. Try using low-fat milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream. This keeps the soup creamy while cutting down on calories. For a vegan option, replace the cream with coconut milk. It adds a nice flavor and texture. Adding protein can also boost nutrition. You can stir in cooked chicken or beans for extra heartiness. Beans are especially great for adding fiber and making the soup filling. Using fresh tomatoes in summer makes a big difference. Ripe, juicy tomatoes give the soup a bright flavor. You can also add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic for extra taste. In winter, try using roasted tomatoes for a deeper flavor. You can roast them in the oven with a bit of olive oil. This adds warmth and richness to your soup. If you want to spice things up, try international twists on this classic soup. Add Italian flavors by mixing in some pesto or a splash of balsamic vinegar. These enhance the taste and bring a new depth to the dish. For a more exotic twist, consider adding spices like curry powder or smoked paprika. These spices give the soup a warm kick. You can also try adding a hint of cumin for a unique flavor profile. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. Creamy tomato basil soup stays fresh in the fridge for about 4 to 5 days. To keep it safe, store it in airtight containers. Make sure to let the soup cool before sealing it. This step helps prevent condensation and keeps it from getting watery. Freezing this soup is a great way to save it for later. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top since liquids expand when frozen. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it gently on the stove, stirring often to keep it smooth. For easy reheating, portion the soup into single servings. This way, you can grab just what you need. Pair it with a sandwich or salad to create a full meal. You can also combine it with other meal prep ideas, like roasted veggies or grilled cheese. These sides make for a comforting and complete meal! For the full recipe, check out the provided link. How do I thicken my tomato basil soup? You can thicken your soup in a few ways. First, blend the soup longer to make it creamier. Second, add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water. Another option is to simmer it longer to reduce the liquid. Each method helps create a thicker texture. Can I make this soup in advance? Yes, you can make the soup in advance. Just cool it down and store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stove. What are the health benefits of tomato basil soup? Tomato basil soup is rich in vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes provide vitamin C and antioxidants. Basil adds flavor and may help with digestion. This soup is also low in calories, making it a healthy choice. Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, this soup is gluten-free. The main ingredients do not contain gluten. Always check labels on any broth or added ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh? Absolutely! Canned tomatoes work very well in this recipe. They are often picked at peak ripeness, so they taste great. Just make sure to drain excess liquid if needed. What type of blender is best for making soup? An immersion blender is best for making soup. It’s easy to use and reduces mess. If you don’t have one, a regular blender works too. Just blend in batches, being careful with hot liquids. For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. This blog covered making a delicious tomato basil soup. You learned about key ingredients, preparation steps, and helpful tips. I shared flavor enhancements and variations for your own twist. Storing and reheating options were also discussed for easy meals. This soup is both comforting and versatile. Now, enjoy making it your own! Prepare, share, and savor every bowl you create.](https://mydishspin.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/20f3738a-78b3-48e2-ae07-a12e4a262613-250x250.webp)
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Comforting Dish
Warm up with a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup that's bursting with flavor! This easy recipe combines ripe crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, and rich heavy cream for a delightful blend that's perfect for any occasion. Discover all the step-by-step instructions and tips to elevate your dish with croutons and a drizzle of cream. Click through to explore this comforting recipe and impress your family and friends today!