Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: a Cozy Classic

Cozy Up with Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Have you ever had one of those chilly evenings where a warm bowl of soup recipes just hits the spot? oh, i know i have! this creamy tomato basil soup is a big hug in a bowl.

The taste of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a splash of cream gives it that signature cozy vibe. seriously, it feels like you're sitting in an italian trattoria with every spoonful!

This lovely soup comes from italy and is a classic for a reason it’s all about comfort and warmth. you can whip it up in just 30 minutes .

No complicated tricks here, my friends; it’s an easy recipe, which means everyone can join in on the fun, no matter their cooking level! plus, it yields four hearty servings , perfect for a cozy dinner or easy leftovers the next day.

So, what makes this soup really shine? well, for starters, it’s packed with vitamins from fresh tomatoes and basil. you know, a little health never hurt anyone! you can serve it as a main dish or pair it with a crunchy baguette or maybe even a classic grilled cheese sandwich.

Honestly, who doesn’t love that combo? and let's be real: this is a recipe for all seasons. it’s perfect for winter nights, spring picnics, or whenever you need that comforting vibe.

What makes this particular soup special? it’s all about the simplicity . you don’t need fancy ingredients; just some basics that you probably have at home already.

Plus, the aroma while it cooks? you might just get a few neighbors knocking on your door asking what’s for dinner!

Got fresh tomatoes? awesome! if not, canned will do just fine. just be careful with the blending part; nobody likes a hot soup explosion in the kitchen! and remember, you can totally experiment add a pinch of red pepper for a kick or swap the cream for coconut milk if you’re feeling adventurous.

Get ready because the next section will have all the ingredients you need to make this delicious soup yourself!

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients

Let’s dive into what you need for this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup . This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, and the ingredients are pretty straightforward.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml) Quality matters! Go for extra virgin if you can. It really amps up that flavor.
• 1 medium onion , chopped Fresh is best. A good onion should feel firm and not sprout-y.
• 2 garlic cloves , minced Crush those bad boys right before you use them for maximum aroma!
• 2 cans (14 oz each) diced tomatoes (800 g total) Hunt for the ones packed in juice or puree for that rich texture.
• 1 cup vegetable broth (240 ml) Homemade is awesome, but store-bought works too if you're in a hurry.
• 1 teaspoon sugar (5 g) This balances out the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Salt and pepper, to taste Don’t skimp here! You can use table salt, but sea salt is my jam.
• ½ cup heavy cream (120 ml) You can swap this for coconut milk if you need a dairy-free option.
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves , chopped Fresh basil is key! If it smells like summer, you’re golden.

Seasoning Notes

When seasoning your soup, think simple and classic. Here’s what you need:

• Essential spice combos : Salt, pepper, and a hint of sugar is all you need to brighten the flavors up.
• Flavor enhancers : Feel free to toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat if you’re adventurous.
• Quick substitution options : No sugar? Honey or agave works in a pinch.

Equipment Needed

Now, let’s talk gear. You don’t need fancy stuff here:

• Large pot or Dutch oven – This will be your soup's cozy home.
• Immersion blender (or regular blender) – So you can turn this chunky goodness into silky smooth soup. If using a regular blender, let it cool a bit first, trust me .
• Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring and feels good in your hand.
• Ladle – For serving that warm deliciousness without a mess.

As you whip up this amazing soup, just think about how comforting it will be on chilly nights. will you pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich? a classic combo that's never out of style! and hey, it’s great for meal prep just freeze the leftovers for those busy nights when you don’t feel like cooking.

So, gather your soup recipes ingredients, grab your favorite tools, and let’s get cooking! you'll have a bowl of yumminess that’ll make everyone ask for seconds.

Seriously, you might want to double this recipe.

Cooking Method: Crafting Your Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Prep Steps: Get Ready to Roll!

First off, let’s chat about mise en place . this fancy term just means having everything in its place. chop your onion and garlic beforehand.

Open those cans of diced tomatoes too. trust me, it makes the cooking process smoother than a jazz record on a sunday morning.

Now, about saving time gather everything like a culinary scavenger hunt! set out your ingredients on the counter while cranking up your favorite playlist.

Seriously, cooking is more fun with a good groove!

And don’t forget the safety reminders ! If you’re using a traditional blender for the soup, let it cool a bit before blending! Hot soup splattering everywhere isn’t just a mess; it’s a full-on disaster! Ouch!

step-by-step Process: Let’s Make some Magic!

1. Sauté aromatics : heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. toss in your chopped onion, and sauté until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes .

   Pro tip: stir occasionally so it doesn’t burn!

2. Add Garlic : Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute. Your kitchen will smell heavenly! 🙌

3. Combine ingredients : dump in the 2 cans of diced tomatoes (don’t drain ‘em!), 1 cup of vegetable broth, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and some salt and pepper to taste.

   Bring that beauty to a simmer and let it chill for 10 minutes .

4. Blend smooth : if you’ve got an immersion blender, now's the time to show it off! blend until the soup is silky smooth.

   If using a regular blender, just remember to blend in batches. who wants hot soup explosions?

5. Finish with cream : pour the soup back into the pot (if you removed it). stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of fresh basil.

   Heat gently until it's warmed through about 5 minutes .

6. Serve : Taste it. Adjust seasoning if needed. Now, ladle it up and enjoy that darn goodness!

Pro Tips: Elevate Your Soup Game

Wanna impress? Use fresh tomatoes during the summer for a pop of flavor that’ll knock your socks off. Think you’re fancy? Adjust the cream level to your liking.

Common mistakes? Don’t skip on seasoning! Soup needs love. Also, don’t blend straight from the hot pot, y’all. Safety first!

And hey, you can make-ahead ! This soup freezes like a champion. Make a double batch, throw it in the freezer, and thank yourself later when you have an easy dinner waiting.

Are you daydreaming about cozy nights with your creamy tomato basil soup now? just add some grilled cheese, and you’ll be living the good life! if you're curious about more flavors, check out instant pot gyros beef or slow cooker beef shawarma for a tangy twist.

Your comfort game just leveled up!

Recipe Notes for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Serving Suggestions

Now, let’s chat about how to make that creamy tomato basil soup shine on your dining table. first off, plating can be as simple or fancy as you want.

A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh basil on top can make it pop. you could even toss in a little parmesan if you're feeling extra!

And don’t forget about sides ! honestly, you can’t go wrong pairing this warm hug in a bowl with a grilled cheese sandwich talk about nostalgia! it’s a classic combo that’s totally unbeatable.

If you’re in the mood for a lighter touch, a fresh green salad with a citrusy vinaigrette is a great choice too.

For a drink, grab a chilled glass of sauvignon blanc . it complements that tomato flavor like nobody’s business.

Storage Tips

Let’s keep things real here: when it comes to making meals last, you want to know your options. after making your soup recipes , let it cool down, then you can store it in the fridge for up to three days .

Just make sure to use an airtight container to lock in that yumminess.

If you wanna extend its life, this soup freezes like a champ! just pour any leftovers into freezer safe containers grab a marker and label them too! when you're ready for a cozy night, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.

For reheating, pop it on the stove over low heat and stir gently until warmed through. you might wanna add a splash of broth to thin it out if it’s gotten too chunky.

Variations

Feeling a little adventurous? let’s talk variations ! you can spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions for a slight kick.

Or, if you're chasing a dairy-free option , swap the heavy cream for some coconut milk. you'll get a lovely flavor twist!

Also, don’t shy away from seasonal swaps . In the summer, fresh heirloom tomatoes add that delightful, sweet summer vibe. Winter? Maybe a dash of roasted red peppers for some extra depth.

Nutrition Basics

Okay, let’s talk numbers for a sec. this soup packs about 240 calories per serving, which isn't too shabby, right? you’ve got 4 grams of protein and lots of vitamins from those tomatoes and basil.

Eating tomatoes is like giving your body a power-up with antioxidants, helping to boost overall health. basil? it’s anti inflammatory and even adds that fresh vibe we all love.

Sounds like a win-win to me!

So there you have it notes that’ll have you making the best creamy tomato basil soup in your kitchen! give this cozy classic a try, and i promise it’ll become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

You won't regret it. enjoy every slurp!