Description
This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a rich and velvety soup bursting with fresh tomato flavor and aromatic basil, gently enhanced with a touch of cream. Perfect as a comforting meal any day, especially when paired with grilled cheese or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté the onion: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, allowing its aroma to release without burning.
- Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, then stir in the dried oregano, sugar if using, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Blend the soup: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer batches to a blender and blend until velvety.
- Add cream and basil: Stir in the heavy cream and fresh chopped basil to add richness and herbaceous freshness.
- Final simmer and seasoning: Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes, then taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and optionally top with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use fresh ripe tomatoes when in season for an extra vibrant flavor.
- Add red pepper flakes if you desire a subtle spicy kick.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American