Warm up your evenings with my creamy tomato basil soup recipe! This soup is so easy to make, and it features fresh ingredients that are sure to please. You’ll love the rich flavors of tomatoes and basil combined with a creamy texture that makes every spoonful comforting. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a cozy dinner with friends, this soup will quickly become a favorite. Let’s dive into the simple ingredients and steps to make your perfect bowl!
Ingredients
List of Key Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28-ounce) can of high-quality crushed tomatoes
– 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, coarsely chopped
– Optional: Homemade or store-bought croutons for garnish
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a great creamy tomato basil soup. Each item plays a role in the final flavor. For example, the olive oil adds richness, while the balsamic vinegar gives depth.
High-quality crushed tomatoes are a must. They make your soup taste fresh and bright. Using low-sodium vegetable broth keeps the soup from being too salty. Sugar balances the tomato’s acidity, making the flavor smooth.
You can use heavy cream for a rich texture or coconut cream for a vegan twist. Fresh basil gives an aromatic touch and brightens the taste. If you want some crunch, top your soup with croutons.
Ready to cook? Check out the Full Recipe for all the steps!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Heat olive oil and sauté onions.
– Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
– Combine tomatoes, broth, vinegar, sugar, and seasonings.
First, you will want to heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. After a few moments, add the finely diced onion. Sauté it for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want it soft and translucent. This builds the flavor for your soup. Next, toss in the minced garlic. Cook it for 1 to 2 minutes. You will smell the wonderful aroma, but be careful not to brown it. That can make it taste bitter.
After that, pour in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, balsamic vinegar, and sugar. Season it with salt and pepper. Turn the heat up to high. Once it begins to simmer, reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 20 minutes. This simmering time is key to melding the flavors together.
Cooking Techniques
– Simmering to meld flavors.
– Pureeing the soup for desired texture.
– Incorporating cream without boiling.
Now for the fun part! After simmering, use an immersion blender to puree the soup. You want it silky smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a standard blender in batches. Make sure it’s not too hot to avoid splattering.
Once you have a smooth texture, return the soup to the pot. Turn the heat to low and gently stir in the heavy cream. If you prefer a vegan option, use coconut cream instead. Warm the soup, but do not let it boil. This keeps the creamy texture intact.
Serving Recommendations
– Ladle into bowls and garnishing tips.
– Suggestions for crusty bread pairing.
– Enjoying the soup warm.
Now it’s time to serve! Ladle the hot soup into rustic bowls. For a fancy touch, add a swirl of cream on top. Sprinkle some freshly chopped basil for color. If you like, top it off with croutons for extra crunch.
Pair this soup with a fresh loaf of crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping! Enjoy your creamy tomato basil soup warm for the best flavor. For the full recipe, check out Creamy Tomato Basil Bliss.
Tips & Tricks
Flavor Enhancements
– Fresh herbs give your soup a rich aroma. Use basil and parsley for the best results.
– Sugar and vinegar balance the soup’s acidity. Add a teaspoon of sugar with a splash of vinegar.
– Always season to taste. Start with salt and pepper, then adjust as needed.
Cooking Equipment
– An immersion blender works best for blending soup. It’s easy and keeps your pot clean.
– A large, heavy pot ensures even cooking. Choose one with a thick bottom to prevent burning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Overcooking garlic can make it bitter. Cook just until fragrant, about one to two minutes.
– Check the soup’s consistency after pureeing. Add more broth if it’s too thick for your liking.
For the full recipe, check out the Creamy Tomato Basil Bliss section.
Variations
Vegan Options
You can easily make this soup vegan. Just swap heavy cream for coconut cream. Coconut cream adds a nice richness. It also brings a hint of sweetness. You can pair it with fresh veggies for more nutrition. Try adding spinach or carrots. Both add color and taste.
Gluten-Free Modifications
Make sure your broth is gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free vegetable broth. You can also use rice or quinoa as a topping. If you love croutons, look for gluten-free ones at the store. You can even make your own with gluten-free bread.
Unique Flavor Profiles
Want to spice things up? Add red pepper flakes for a kick. Just a pinch can transform the soup. You can also play with herbs. Try thyme or oregano for a different taste. Experimenting with flavors can make your soup unique.
For the Full Recipe, refer back to the earlier sections for all the details!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To keep your creamy tomato basil soup fresh, cool it quickly. You can do this by letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. After it cools, transfer it to airtight containers. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work best. Make sure to leave some space at the top to allow for expansion. This soup can stay in the fridge for up to five days.
Freezing the Soup
Freezing your soup is a great option if you want to save some for later. First, let the soup cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. If using bags, squeeze out excess air before sealing. Label each bag with the date. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring often. If the soup looks a bit thick, add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to life.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your creamy tomato basil soup lasts about five days. To check if it’s still good, look for signs like an off smell or changes in color. If you see mold or notice any strange textures, it’s best to toss it. Fresh soup should smell like sweet tomatoes and basil. Trust your senses; they will guide you well!
FAQs
What is the best way to reheat creamy tomato basil soup?
To reheat the soup, pour it into a pot. Heat it on low until warm. Stir gently to avoid sticking. You can also use a microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring between. This method keeps the soup smooth and tasty.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes. Just chop them up if they are whole. If they are diced, that works too. This swap saves time and still gives great flavor. Choose high-quality canned tomatoes for the best results.
How can I make the soup spicier?
To add spice, try red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Start with a small amount and taste. You can also add fresh jalapeños or hot sauce. Mix in these ingredients while cooking. This way, the flavors blend well.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes, creamy tomato basil soup is great for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge. You can keep it in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat portions as needed for quick meals.
What can I serve with creamy tomato basil soup?
This soup pairs well with many sides. Consider grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic combo. You can also serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Croutons add a delightful crunch, too. Explore these options to make your meal special.
For the full recipe, check out Creamy Tomato Basil Bliss.
This blog post detailed how to make creamy tomato basil soup. You learned about the ingredients, preparation steps, and cooking techniques. I provided tips to boost flavor and avoid common mistakes. We also discussed variations for vegan and gluten-free diets. Lastly, I shared storage tips to keep your soup fresh.
Enjoy this recipe as a warm comfort food or a starter. Experiment with flavors and enjoy every spoonful!
