Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my love affair with creamy tomato basil soup! I first fell in love with this delightful dish on a chilly autumn day while visiting a cozy little café in a picturesque town. The sun was setting, the leaves were falling, and I was in desperate need of something warm and comforting. One spoonful of that velvety soup, bursting with fresh basil and rich tomatoes, transported me to foodie heaven! Ever since that day, I’ve made it my mission to perfect my very own version, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
There’s something incredibly soothing about tomato basil soup. It feels like a warm hug, doesn’t it? The secret is in using quality ingredients and a sprinkle of love (okay, maybe a generous handful)! So grab your apron, and let’s whip up a batch of this creamy goodness that will leave your soul singing.
What’s in Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?
Tomatoes: The star of the show! I prefer to use a mix of fresh, ripe tomatoes and canned San Marzano tomatoes for a deep, rich flavor. But you can get away with any quality canned tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available.
Onion and Garlic: These two friends add a layer of aromatic sweetness. I love using yellow onions, as they give the soup a lovely depth when sautéed, and garlic? Well, let’s just say it’s the ultimate flavor booster!
Fresh Basil: The aromatic herb that really elevates this soup. Fresh basil adds a vibrancy that dried basil just can’t match, and trust me, it makes a world of difference.
Vegetable Broth: This is your soup’s foundation. I use low-sodium vegetable broth to control the salt content while still achieving a rich flavor.
Heavy Cream: For that luxurious creaminess! You can substitute with milk or a non-dairy alternative if you prefer something lighter or vegan-friendly, but I do love the richness that heavy cream brings to the table.
Olive Oil and Butter: A little fat to sauté the veggies and add richness is essential. I mean, who doesn’t love the combination of butter and olive oil?
Is Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This soup packs some fantastic nutrients without compromising on taste.
Tomatoes: They are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant known for its cancer-fighting properties, and they also support heart health.
Basil: This fragrant herb has anti-inflammatory properties and is packed with vitamins A and K. Plus, it adds that delicious freshness that ties everything together.
However, while heavy cream adds exquisite richness, it also means that the soup contains saturated fats. If you’re watching your intake, feel free to swap it out for Greek yogurt or coconut cream! Just remember, moderation is key, and you can still enjoy a comforting bowl without feeling guilty.
Ingredients List
This recipe serves about 4 people.
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cans (14 oz each) San Marzano tomatoes or 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves (plus more for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The smell will be heavenly – just warning you!
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant (don’t burn it, or we’ll have a different story!).
3. Now add the tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer, and let it bubble away for about 15-20 minutes to marry the flavors.
4. Remove the pot from heat and carefully use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. (If you don’t have one, you can do this in batches in a standard blender—just be careful with hot liquids!)
5. Return the pot to the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Add fresh basil leaves, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Give it a final stir, and then serve hot garnished with some extra basil leaves.
Quick Tips to Elevate Your Soup Game
– A drizzle of balsamic reduction over the soup just before serving creates a stunning presentation and adds an extra flavor dimension.
– You can always throw in some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you like it spicy!
– Don’t be afraid to experiment! Add roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor or a handful of spinach for extra nutrients.
I hope you’ll give this creamy tomato basil soup a try. It’s perfect for those cozy nights when you want something warm and comforting. I absolutely love when my friends come over and gush about it—trust me, you’ll be the superstar of your kitchen! So, grab your ingredients, get cozy, and let the deliciousness unfold. Happy cooking!