20-Minute Tomato Basil Soup
Cozy Up with 20-Minute Creamy Tomato & Basil Soup
Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day? This 20-Minute Creamy Tomato & Basil Soup is the perfect quick and easy meal for busy weeknights, a light lunch, or a satisfying snack. It’s bursting with fresh flavors, incredibly creamy, and comes together in a flash – seriously, under 20 minutes!
We’ve all been there – craving something delicious but short on time. This recipe skips the hours of simmering without sacrificing flavor. The secret? Using high-quality canned tomatoes and a touch of cream to create a luxuriously smooth texture. The fresh basil adds a vibrant, aromatic finish that elevates this soup from simple to spectacular.
Why You’ll Love This Soup:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes!
- Flavorful: Rich tomato flavor balanced by sweet sugar and fragrant basil.
- Creamy Texture: The perfect balance of smooth and satisfying.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a starter, a light meal, or a cozy snack.
Tips for the Best Soup:
- Tomato Quality: Using good quality crushed and whole tomatoes makes a huge difference in the final flavor.
- Basil Freshness: Fresh basil is key! Don’t substitute with dried basil.
- Cream Choice: Heavy cream will give you the richest, creamiest soup, but half-n-half works well for a lighter option.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Serving Suggestions:
This soup is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with some tasty toppings! Try a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, a side of grilled cheese, or some crusty toasted bread for dipping. A drizzle of olive oil or a swirl of pesto also adds a lovely touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! The soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: While you can freeze it, the texture may change slightly. The cream may separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Q: Can I use different herbs?
A: Absolutely! While basil is classic, you could also try oregano, thyme, or rosemary.
Q: Is this soup vegetarian?
A: Yes, this recipe is vegetarian. To make it vegan, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative.
Q: What kind of tomatoes should I use?
A: San Marzano tomatoes are ideal for their sweetness and low acidity, but any good quality crushed and whole canned tomatoes will work well.
20-Minute Creamy Tomato & Basil Soup
Ingredients
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons yellow onion or shallots minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 14 ounces canned whole tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1/3 cup heavy cream or half-n-half
- 4 tablespoons fresh basil julienned
- parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a medium to large saucepan add olive oil over medium heat, sauté garlic and shallots for 3 minutes or until shallots are translucent.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes.
- Add in the whole tomatoes one at a time, breaking them up by squeezing them as you put them into the pan, make sure to stir in the juice from the cans as well.
- Stir in chicken stock, salt, pepper, and sugar until combined then allow it to cook over medium for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once it has cooked for 10 minutes reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and chopped basil. Simmer for a few minutes, then serve.
- Optional toppings like parmesan cheese, grilled cheese, toasted bread, and chopped basil make great additions.
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