Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Simple and Flavorful Recipe

Looking to warm up your day? This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is the perfect dish! It’s simple, delicious, and packed with flavor. I’ll guide you through easy steps to create a bowl of comfort. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the rich, creamy goodness that will make you feel at home. Ready to get cooking?

Ingredients

Complete List of Ingredients

To make creamy tomato basil soup, you need the following ingredients:

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 medium onion, chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 cans (14 oz each) crushed tomatoes

- 1 ½ cups vegetable broth

- 1 teaspoon sugar

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)

- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn

- Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Measurement Conversions

Here are some handy conversions:

- 1 tablespoon = 15 ml

- 1 cup = 240 ml

- 1 teaspoon = 5 ml

These conversions help you measure accurately for the best results.

Optional Ingredients for Variation

You can add some fun twists to the soup. Consider these options:

- A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

- 1 can of diced tomatoes for texture

- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for more flavor

- Croutons on top for a crunchy finish

These additions can change the soup's taste and texture. Explore what you like!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Process

Start by gathering your ingredients. You need olive oil, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, heavy cream, basil, and Parmesan. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. This makes cooking smooth and fun.

Cooking Techniques

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about five minutes. The onion should be soft and clear. Now, add the minced garlic and cook for one to two minutes more. You want to smell that garlic! Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, and oregano. Add salt and pepper to taste. Bring this mix to a boil. Once it’s boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This helps the flavors mix well.

Blending Tips for Creaminess

After simmering, take the pot off the heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it is smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully pour the soup into a regular blender. Blend in batches if needed. Once smooth, return the soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and torn basil leaves. Warm the soup on low heat. Be careful not to boil it again. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Enjoy the process of making this lovely soup!

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Flavor Enhancement

To make your creamy tomato basil soup taste even better, start with fresh ingredients. Fresh basil adds brightness and a strong flavor. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. If you want a hint of sweetness, use ripe tomatoes or add a touch more sugar. Lastly, let the soup simmer longer to deepen the flavors.

How to Achieve the Perfect Consistency

For a smooth texture, blend the soup well. An immersion blender works great, but a countertop blender is fine too. If the soup is too thick, add more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. If it's too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken up. A little patience goes a long way.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Serve your soup in warm bowls. Drizzle a bit of cream on top for a lovely look. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Garnish each bowl with a basil leaf for a fresh touch. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a cozy meal. Enjoy!

Variations

Vegan and Dairy-Free Adaptations

You can easily make this soup vegan. Instead of heavy cream, use coconut cream. It adds a nice richness. The flavor stays great, and it keeps the soup creamy. Make sure to check the broth. Some vegetable broths contain animal products. Use a pure vegetable broth to keep it vegan.

Gluten-Free Options

This creamy tomato basil soup is naturally gluten-free. The main ingredients do not contain gluten. Just be sure to use a gluten-free vegetable broth. Always check labels to avoid any hidden gluten sources. With these simple changes, everyone can enjoy this delicious soup.

Spicy and Extra Flavor Ideas

Want some heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking. This gives the soup a nice kick. You can also stir in some chopped jalapeños for extra spice. For more flavor, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also brighten the taste. Each tweak makes the soup unique and exciting.

Storage Info

How to Properly Store Leftovers

To store leftovers of creamy tomato basil soup, let it cool first. Transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to keep it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to save it longer, consider freezing it.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze this soup, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. Label the bags with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Guidelines

Reheat the soup in a pot on medium heat. Stir it often to avoid sticking. You can also use a microwave. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of broth or water. This will help bring back its creamy texture.

FAQs

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. It adds a nice flavor. You can also try using half-and-half or whole milk. These options will make the soup lighter. For a vegan choice, try using cashew cream. Blend soaked cashews with water until smooth. This gives a rich and creamy taste.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just make sure to peel and chop them. Use about six medium tomatoes to replace two cans. This will give your soup a fresh flavor. If you use fresh tomatoes, you might need to cook them longer to soften.

How long does creamy tomato basil soup last in the fridge?

The soup lasts about three to five days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down before sealing. This keeps the soup fresh. If it starts to smell off or changes color, it's best to toss it.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this soup is great for meal prep. You can make a big batch and freeze it. Just let the soup cool before freezing. Use freezer-safe containers for best results. You can also portion it into single servings for easy meals.

This blog post covers all you need for creamy tomato basil soup. We discussed the essential ingredients, measurement conversions, and tasty variations. You learned step-by-step cooking methods and helpful tips for great flavor and texture. We also shared proper storage techniques and answered common questions.

In my view, this soup is a simple yet delightful dish. Whether you're making it vegan or experimenting with spices, enjoy every bite. Happy cooking!