Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

A velvety, comforting soup that blends ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and cream for a classic, flavorful dish perfect for any season.

This soup quickly became a favorite in my family for its rich flavor and creamy texture.

Ingredients

• Vegetables: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion chopped, 3 garlic cloves minced, 800 g (28 oz) canned whole peeled tomatoes or 1 kg fresh ripe tomatoes peeled and chopped
• Liquids: 500 ml (2 cups) vegetable broth, 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream
• Herbs & Spices: 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt or to taste, ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1 small bunch fresh basil leaves plus extra for garnish
• Optional: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for extra richness

Instructions

Step 1:

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5 6 minutes stirring occasionally until softened.

Step 2:

Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3:

Stir in the tomatoes with juices if using canned breaking them up with a spoon. Cook for 5 minutes.

Step 4:

Add the vegetable broth sugar salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20 minutes stirring occasionally.

Step 5:

Add the basil leaves and simmer for 2 more minutes.

Step 6:

Remove from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth or carefully blend in batches in a countertop blender.

Step 7:

Stir in the heavy cream and butter if using. Warm gently over low heat for 2 3 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 8:

Serve hot garnished with extra basil leaves and a drizzle of cream if desired.

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Sharing this soup always brings my family together on chilly evenings.

Notes

- For a dairy-free version use coconut cream or a plant-based alternative. Serve with crusty bread or grilled cheese for a classic pairing. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.

Required Tools

Large saucepan immersion blender or countertop blender ladle cutting board and knife

Nutritional Information

Calories 220 Total Fat 14 g Carbohydrates 19 g Protein 4 g per serving

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This creamy tomato basil soup is sure to become your go-to comfort meal any time of year.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of tomatoes work best?

Fresh ripe tomatoes are ideal for a vibrant flavor, but canned whole peeled tomatoes can be used for convenience without compromising taste.

→ How can I make the soup dairy-free?

Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or any preferred plant-based cream to maintain richness without dairy.

→ What is the best way to blend the soup?

An immersion blender allows easy pureeing directly in the pot; alternatively, blend in batches using a countertop blender until smooth.

→ Can I add heat to the soup?

Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking introduces a gentle, balanced heat without overpowering the fresh flavors.

→ What herbs complement the tomato and basil flavors?

Fresh basil is central, but you can also garnish with extra basil leaves or try a hint of thyme for additional depth.