This rich and velvety creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting classic, perfect for pairing with grilled cheese sandwiches or enjoying on its own. Made with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream, it’s full of flavor and easy to make.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can of whole peeled tomatoes (or 6 fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free version)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Croutons or shredded cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Tomatoes and Broth
- Add the canned tomatoes (with their juice) to the pot. If using fresh tomatoes, add them now.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the oregano and sugar (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Blend the Soup
- Once the soup has simmered, use an immersion blender to blend until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
- Once blended, return the soup to the pot.
4. Add the Cream and Basil
- Stir in the heavy cream for a rich and creamy texture.
- Add the fresh basil and simmer for another 5 minutes, letting the flavors combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with croutons or shredded cheese if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the soup with a warm grilled cheese sandwich for a perfect combination.
- Pair with a light salad to balance the richness of the soup.
Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Basil Soup:
- Fresh Tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, blanch and peel them before adding to the soup for the smoothest texture.
- Vegan Version: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or any plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.
- Add a Little Kick: For some spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Extra Flavor: Add a dash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika to elevate the depth of flavor.
This creamy tomato basil soup is the ultimate comfort food, with a balance of sweet tomatoes and aromatic basil, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
