Save A creamy, vibrant tomato and basil soup thats bursting with rich flavor and perfect for cozy days. Silky-smooth with just the right touch of herbs, this comforting classic is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
This soup has been a favorite in my family, bringing warmth and smiles especially on chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion diced, 2 garlic cloves minced, 2 lbs (900 g) ripe tomatoes chopped (or 2 cans [28 oz] whole peeled tomatoes drained), 1 medium carrot peeled and diced
- Liquids: 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable stock (gluten-free if required), 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free option), 1 tbsp tomato paste
- Herbs & Seasonings: 1 tsp sugar (optional to balance acidity), 1/2 tsp salt or to taste, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat), 1/2 cup (15 g) fresh basil leaves packed plus extra for garnish
- Finishing: 2 tbsp unsalted butter (optional for richness)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot sauté for 57 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Step 2:
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Stir in the tomato paste cook for 1 minute.
- Step 4:
- Add the chopped tomatoes vegetable stock sugar (if using) salt pepper and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25 minutes stirring occasionally.
- Step 5:
- Remove from heat. Stir in the fresh basil leaves.
- Step 6:
- Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender in batches) to purée the soup until smooth.
- Step 7:
- Return the soup to low heat. Stir in the cream and butter until fully incorporated and heated through. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Step 8:
- Ladle into bowls garnish with extra basil and serve hot.
Save This recipe always brings the family around the table and creates a cozy atmosphere full of laughter and good conversation.
Required Tools
Large pot Chefs knife Cutting board Wooden spoon Immersion blender or countertop blender Ladle
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (heavy cream butter) May contain gluten if non-gluten-free stock is used For dairy-free or vegan diets substitute coconut cream and omit butter Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies
Nutritional Information
Calories 210 Total Fat 13 g Carbohydrates 20 g Protein 4 g per serving
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This soup is a perfect blend of flavor and comfort you can enjoy any time of year.
Questions & Answers
- → How can I make this soup vegan?
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit the butter to keep the soup creamy without dairy.
- → Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, canned whole peeled tomatoes work well and provide consistent flavor all year round.
- → What herbs enhance the basil flavor best?
Fresh basil is key, but adding a touch of freshly ground black pepper and optional red pepper flakes can heighten the herbal aroma and taste.
- → Is it possible to add more depth to the tomato flavor?
Roasting fresh tomatoes before cooking or adding a handful of roasted red peppers can intensify the soup's flavor profile.
- → What is the best way to get a smooth texture?
Using an immersion blender directly in the pot or transferring the soup to a countertop blender in batches ensures a silky, smooth consistency.
- → Can this soup be made gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free vegetable stock you can easily keep the soup gluten-free.