Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

History of Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato soup has been a staple in kitchens for centuries, with its origins traced back to Spain and Italy, where tomatoes were first cultivated. Over time, creamy tomato soup gained popularity in the United States as an easy and delicious meal. The addition of fresh basil to the classic recipe gives it a fresh, herby twist inspired by Italian cuisine.

Why Tomato Basil Soup?

• Simple and Comforting: It’s made with pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
• Versatile: Great as a main dish or a starter.
• Quick to Make: Ready in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

What is Tomato Basil Soup Made of?

This soup is made with:

• Tomatoes: Fresh, canned, or roasted for a rich tomato flavor.
• Fresh Basil: Adds a sweet, herbal taste.
• Garlic and Onion: Aromatics that build flavor.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Creates a smooth, flavorful base.
• Cream or Milk: For a creamy, rich texture.
• Optional Add-Ins: Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

What to Have with Tomato Basil Soup

Serve this dish with:

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing.
• Crusty Bread: Like sourdough or baguette for dipping.
• Salad: A simple green salad or Caesar salad complements the soup.
• Pasta: Serve as a starter before a pasta dish.

Is Tomato Basil Soup Healthy?

Yes, this soup is packed with nutrients from the tomatoes and basil. To make it healthier, use low-fat milk or skip the cream, and opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, and basil adds vitamins and minerals.

Kitchen Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Blender or immersion blender (to puree the soup)
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle (for serving)

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 (28 oz) cans of whole peeled tomatoes (or 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (plus more for garnish)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
• Optional toppings: Grated Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes

Directions:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat 2 tbsp olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes

• Add the canned or fresh tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot.
• Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
• Simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

• Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. (Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender.)
• Return the soup to the pot.

Step 5: Add Cream and Basil

• Stir in the heavy cream and fresh basil leaves.
• Simmer for 5 more minutes, then season with salt, pepper, and sugar (if using).

Step 6: Serve

• Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, or red pepper flakes if desired.

Tips

• Roast the Tomatoes: For a deeper flavor, roast fresh tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the soup.
• Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil leaves provide the best flavor, but dried basil can be used in a pinch.
• Balance the Acidity: Add a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of cream to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Make it Vegan: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of cream and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or pairing it with a grilled cheese sandwich for dinner, it’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and a creamy finish, this soup is perfect for any occasion.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

getcakerecipes

This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is comforting, flavorful, and so easy to make. Made with simple ingredients like tomatoes, fresh basil, cream, and garlic, it’s the perfect meal for chilly days or when you’re craving something cozy. Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich or crusty bread for a satisfying lunch or dinner that everyone will love.

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 (28 oz) cans of whole peeled tomatoes (or 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (plus more for garnish)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
• Optional toppings: Grated Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes

• Heat 2 tbsp olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.

• Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.

• Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.

• Add the canned or fresh tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot.

• Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir to combine.

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

• Simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld.

• Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. (Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender.)

• Return the soup to the pot.

• Stir in the heavy cream and fresh basil leaves.

• Simmer for 5 more minutes, then season with salt, pepper, and sugar (if using).

• Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, or red pepper flakes if desired.

Keyword Tomato Basil Soup