Description
This creamy tomato basil soup is a classic, smooth, and comforting dish made with crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream. Perfect for a cozy meal, it blends savory and fresh flavors to create a deliciously rich soup ideal for any season.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
Finishing Touches
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat oil: Warm the olive oil in a pot over medium heat to prepare the base for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté onions: Add the chopped onion to the warmed oil and cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, stirring to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cook uncovered for 15 minutes to develop flavors and reduce slightly.
- Add cream and seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream, chopped fresh basil, sugar, salt, and black pepper to balance acidity and enhance the soup’s richness.
- Blend soup: Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy.
- Serve warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- This soup pairs perfectly with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic comforting meal.
- You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- For a smoother texture, strain the soup after blending if desired.
- Fresh basil can be replaced with dried basil; use 1 tablespoon dried basil if fresh is unavailable.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
