Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A Velvety, Comforting Bowl of Heaven 🍅🌿✨

1. Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup to warm your soul on a chilly evening. This rich, velvety soup combines the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the aromatic freshness of basil, all brought together with a touch of cream for luxurious smoothness. Whether served with a crusty baguette or paired with our delicious Hearty London Breakfast Plate for a complete meal, this creamy tomato basil soup recipe is a timeless classic that never fails to impress.

This easy-to-follow recipe ensures a restaurant-quality result every time. The secret lies in balancing the acidity of the tomatoes with the creaminess of dairy and the herbal brightness of fresh basil. Inspired by the classic version from Tastes Better From Scratch, we’ve perfected our own version that’s both comforting and elegant. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to making the best creamy tomato basil soup you’ve ever tasted!

2. Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for that perfect sauté)
• 1 medium onion, diced (yellow or sweet onions work best)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (fresh is always better!)
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (San Marzano recommended)
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (for that signature creaminess)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper to taste (we recommend freshly ground)

For a protein-packed variation, try adding some roasted chickpeas as a crunchy topping!

3. Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until aromatic. This base will give your creamy tomato basil soup incredible depth of flavor.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. The aroma at this stage is absolutely heavenly!

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until perfectly smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half the mixture. For a silky consistency like we achieved in our Green Tea Smoothie, you might want to blend it completely smooth.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Basil

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if needed to balance the acidity. Simmer for another 5 minutes before serving. The cream adds that luxurious texture we love in comfort foods, similar to what we achieved in our Protein Ice Cream.

4. Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

• Use high-quality tomatoes: San Marzano or fire-roasted tomatoes add incredible depth of flavor.
• Adjust creaminess: Substitute half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version – just like we did in our Frozen Yogurt Bark recipe.
• Garnish creatively: Top with croutons, grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of pesto for extra flavor and texture.
• Make it ahead: Like our Protein Overnight Oats, this soup tastes even better the next day!

5. Storage and Reheating

Store leftover creamy tomato basil soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent separation. While freezing is possible, the cream may alter texture slightly—thaw and reheat with a splash of broth to restore consistency.

6. Serving Suggestions

This creamy tomato basil soup pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic bread or sourdough (perfect for dipping!)
• Grilled cheese sandwiches (the ultimate comfort combo)
• A crisp green salad (try it with our Cauliflower Fried Rice for a complete meal)
• As a starter before our Chickpea Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

7. Health Benefits

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health, while basil offers anti-inflammatory properties. Using olive oil adds healthy fats, making this creamy tomato basil soup both delicious and nutritious. For another antioxidant-packed meal, try our Spinach and Feta Egg Muffins.

8. Variations

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Vegan option: Replace cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast for depth.
• Roasted tomato version: Roast fresh tomatoes before blending for a smoky twist.
• Extra veggie boost: Add roasted vegetables like in our Roasted Delicata Squash recipe.

9. Conclusion

With its silky texture and vibrant flavors, this creamy tomato basil soup is a must-try for any home cook. Simple yet sophisticated, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or making it the star of your meal, this soup is guaranteed to impress. Whip up a batch today and savor the comforting embrace of this classic dish!

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