Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato basil soup is a comforting, classic dish that has been a staple for generations. It’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor—perfect for a cold day, or whenever you’re craving a warm bowl of goodness. The tangy sweetness of ripe tomatoes, combined with the freshness of basil and the richness of cream, creates a harmonious blend that everyone loves. This Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is not only incredibly satisfying but also simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a bowl of this comforting soup in under 30 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy lunch, this soup pairs beautifully with a grilled cheese sandwich, making for the ultimate classic meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
2. Comforting: The creamy texture and fresh basil elevate the classic tomato soup to a new level of comfort.
3. Healthy: Packed with tomatoes and fresh basil, this soup is a healthy option for lunch or dinner.
4. Customizable: Adjust the consistency or seasonings to suit your preferences. You can even add extra veggies for more depth.
5. Perfect for Leftovers: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.

Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Diced tomatoes (canned)
• Vegetable broth
• Heavy cream
• Fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Add Cheese: Stir in some grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
• Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the soup a little kick.
• Vegan Option: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
• Herb Variation: Swap out basil for other herbs like thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Chunky Soup: For a more textured soup, blend only part of the soup or leave it chunky.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches.

Step 4: Add Cream and Basil

Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the basil to infuse its flavor into the soup.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the soup hot, and garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Tomatoes: While canned tomatoes work perfectly fine, fresh, ripe tomatoes can bring an extra burst of flavor to the soup.
• Control the Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, add more vegetable broth. For a thicker soup, use less broth or blend the soup less.
• Sauté the Garlic and Onion: Don’t skip the sautéing step—it builds a lot of flavor at the base of the soup.
• Store Properly: Allow the soup to cool before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Make It Smooth: For an ultra-smooth texture, blend the soup for longer and strain it if desired.

How to Serve

This Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Try serving it with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich, a side of crusty bread, or even a fresh green salad. You can also top it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an extra creamy finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Freezing

This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

Reheating

To reheat the soup, warm it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. You may need to add a little extra vegetable broth if the soup thickens after storing.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used. Just make sure to blanch, peel, and chop them before adding to the soup.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

3. Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, simply swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream and use vegetable broth instead of any chicken-based broth.

4. How do I store leftover soup?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

5. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, the soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

6. How can I make the soup thicker?

You can reduce the amount of broth or blend the soup less for a thicker consistency.

7. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. It actually tastes better the next day!

8. How can I make this soup dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cream substitute like coconut cream or cashew cream.

9. What’s the best way to blend the soup?

An immersion blender is ideal for blending soup directly in the pot, but a regular blender works as well.

10. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini to add texture and flavor.

Conclusion

This Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a cozy comfort food, this soup will hit the spot. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, you can have a homemade bowl of delicious soup in under 30 minutes. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the perfect blend of creamy tomato and fresh basil in every spoonful!

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