Rich and creamy tomato basil soup
Cozy Up with a Bowl of Rich and Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day? This Rich and Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is the perfect antidote to the cold, and it’s surprisingly simple to make! Packed with fresh flavors and a velvety smooth texture, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a comforting dinner starter, or a satisfying meal on its own, this soup delivers.
We’ve taken a classic tomato soup and elevated it with the bright, herbaceous notes of fresh basil and a touch of cream for ultimate richness. It’s a Mediterranean and Italian-inspired delight that’s both healthy and incredibly flavorful.
What makes this soup special?
- Fresh Basil: Using fresh basil is key to achieving that vibrant, aromatic flavor. Don’t skimp on it!
- Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream creates a luxurious, velvety smooth texture that will have you coming back for more.
- Easy to Make: This soup comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a starter, a light lunch, or a satisfying dinner.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve with a crusty bread for dipping.
- Pair it with a simple salad for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A: While you can use dried basil, the flavor won’t be as vibrant. If you must use dried, use about 1 tablespoon, but fresh is highly recommended.
Q: Can I make this soup vegan?
A: Absolutely! Simply substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative, such as cashew cream or coconut cream.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
A: Yes! Roasted red peppers, carrots, or zucchini would all be delicious additions.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to freeze it before adding the cream.
Q: What kind of tomatoes should I use?
A: Crushed tomatoes work best for this recipe, as they provide a good base for the soup. You can also use whole peeled tomatoes and crush them yourself.
Get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort! This Rich and Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a guaranteed winner for the whole family.
Rich and Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped plus more for garnish
- 1 teaspoon sugar optional, to balance acidity
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- as needed grated Parmesan cheese optional, for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the chopped basil, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can use a regular blender, blending the soup in batches.
- Return the pot to low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Warm the soup through, but do not let it boil.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
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