Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup? Look no further! My creamy tomato basil soup recipe is simple to make and full of flavor. With fresh ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy this delightful dish in no time. Plus, I’ll share tips to customize it for any diet. Let’s dive into the delicious world of creamy tomato basil soup and transform your mealtime!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
To make a rich and tasty creamy tomato basil soup, you will need these ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 ounces canned whole tomatoes, with their juice
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Optional: Croutons for garnish
Measurement Tips for Accuracy
When measuring your ingredients, use the right tools. A dry measuring cup works best for solids like diced onion. For liquids, use a liquid measuring cup to get it just right. If you want to be even more precise, use a kitchen scale. This helps when you need exact amounts, especially for canned tomatoes or cream.
Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Preferences
You can easily swap some ingredients to fit your needs. If you want a vegan option, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. You can also use low-sodium vegetable broth for a lighter soup. If you’re allergic to tomatoes, try using roasted red peppers as a base. For a gluten-free meal, check your broth labels to avoid any hidden gluten.
This creamy tomato basil soup is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. You can find the full recipe above to get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Detailed Cooking Process for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
To make creamy tomato basil soup, start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium diced onion and sauté it for about 5 minutes. You want the onion to be soft and clear. Then, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 more minute. Be careful not to let the garlic burn; it can ruin the flavor.
Next, add 28 ounces of canned whole tomatoes, including their juice, and 2 cups of vegetable broth. Mix in 1 teaspoon of sugar and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. This combination brings out the best taste in tomatoes. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir it occasionally; this helps everything blend together well.
After simmering, it’s time to blend the soup. I use an immersion blender for this, as it is easier and safer. If you don’t have one, pour the soup into a regular blender in batches. Just remember to let it cool a bit first to avoid any splashes. Once blended, put the soup back in the pot and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Warm it gently but do not boil. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Right before serving, stir in about 1/4 cup of freshly chopped basil.
Tips for Blending the Soup Smoothly
For a smooth soup, blending is key. If using an immersion blender, keep it submerged and move it around. This ensures all parts get blended evenly. If using a regular blender, fill it only halfway. Hot soup can expand and cause spills. Always cover the lid with a kitchen towel to catch any splatters while blending.
Adjusting Cook Time for Flavor Enhancement
Cook time can vary. If you want deeper flavors, let the soup simmer longer. Just make sure to stir it to prevent sticking. You can also adjust the cook time based on how thick you want the soup. For a thicker soup, simmer longer without a lid. If you prefer it thinner, add more vegetable broth. Experiment to find your perfect balance!
This creamy tomato basil soup is simple and comforting, perfect for any meal. For a detailed recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Flavor Enhancement
To boost the flavor of your creamy tomato basil soup, start with fresh herbs. Fresh basil adds a bright taste that dried herbs can’t match. When you chop basil, do it just before adding it to the soup. This keeps its oils fresh and fragrant. Also, try roasting your tomatoes before adding them. It brings out their sweetness and depth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the garlic. It can turn bitter if you cook it too long. Add it after the onions are soft. Another mistake is not blending enough. A smooth texture makes the soup creamy and rich. If you don’t blend well, you may miss out on that perfect mouthfeel.
Ways to Customize Your Soup
You can easily change this soup to fit your taste. Want a spicier kick? Add red pepper flakes when you sauté the onions. For a smoky flavor, toss in some smoked paprika. If you like a bit of tang, squeeze in some lemon juice before serving. You can also swap regular cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free option. For a heartier meal, stir in cooked pasta or quinoa.
For more ideas, check out the Full Recipe!
Variations
Vegan Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
To make a vegan creamy tomato basil soup, swap heavy cream with coconut cream. Coconut cream adds a rich taste without dairy. The rest of the recipe stays the same. You can still enjoy that creamy texture with plant-based goodness. Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
Gluten-Free Options and Adjustments
If you need a gluten-free soup, no worries. The main ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your broth is gluten-free. You can use vegetable broth from a trusted brand. This way, you can enjoy this hearty soup without any gluten issues.
Pairing Suggestions for Different Occasions
This soup works well for many occasions. For a cozy night, pair it with crusty bread. It also shines at gatherings with a fresh salad. For a fun twist, serve it with grilled cheese sandwiches. You can have a classic combo that everyone loves. You can find the full recipe to explore more ideas.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques for Leftovers
To store leftover creamy tomato basil soup, let it cool first. Then, pour it into an airtight container. Make sure to seal the lid tightly. This keeps the soup fresh and prevents any odors from mixing in. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option.
Freezing Instructions and Tips
If you wish to freeze your soup, use freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top, as the soup may expand when frozen. You can also use freezer bags for easy storage. Just remember to label them with the date. The soup can stay fresh for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Methods for Best Results
When it’s time to enjoy your soup, reheat it gently. You can use a pot on the stove over low heat. Stir it often to prevent sticking. If you prefer, you can microwave it in a bowl. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warmth. Adjust the texture by adding a splash of broth or cream if needed, making it just as creamy as before.
FAQs
How long does creamy tomato basil soup last in the fridge?
Creamy tomato basil soup lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. Always check for any off-smell or change in color before eating. If you notice anything strange, it’s best to toss it out.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. It actually tastes better the next day. Prepare the soup and let it cool. Then, store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it gently on the stove. Stir in the fresh basil right before serving for the best flavor.
What can I serve with creamy tomato basil soup?
You can serve many things with creamy tomato basil soup. Here are some great ideas:
– Grilled cheese sandwiches
– Crusty bread or baguette
– Salad with fresh greens
– Garlic bread for a tasty side
– Croutons for extra crunch
These sides make the meal more filling and fun. Try different combinations to find your favorite pairing! For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe].
Creamy tomato basil soup is simple and delicious. We covered the right ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for best flavor. Remember to adjust for your tastes and special diets. You saw ways to store leftovers and enjoy this soup anytime. By following the steps, you can create a warming dish that everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking and share this delight with others!
![To make a rich and tasty creamy tomato basil soup, you will need these ingredients: - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 garlic cloves, minced - 28 ounces canned whole tomatoes, with their juice - 2 cups vegetable broth - 1 teaspoon sugar - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option - Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup) - Optional: Croutons for garnish When measuring your ingredients, use the right tools. A dry measuring cup works best for solids like diced onion. For liquids, use a liquid measuring cup to get it just right. If you want to be even more precise, use a kitchen scale. This helps when you need exact amounts, especially for canned tomatoes or cream. You can easily swap some ingredients to fit your needs. If you want a vegan option, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. You can also use low-sodium vegetable broth for a lighter soup. If you’re allergic to tomatoes, try using roasted red peppers as a base. For a gluten-free meal, check your broth labels to avoid any hidden gluten. This creamy tomato basil soup is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. You can find the full recipe above to get started! To make creamy tomato basil soup, start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium diced onion and sauté it for about 5 minutes. You want the onion to be soft and clear. Then, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 more minute. Be careful not to let the garlic burn; it can ruin the flavor. Next, add 28 ounces of canned whole tomatoes, including their juice, and 2 cups of vegetable broth. Mix in 1 teaspoon of sugar and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. This combination brings out the best taste in tomatoes. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir it occasionally; this helps everything blend together well. After simmering, it’s time to blend the soup. I use an immersion blender for this, as it is easier and safer. If you don’t have one, pour the soup into a regular blender in batches. Just remember to let it cool a bit first to avoid any splashes. Once blended, put the soup back in the pot and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Warm it gently but do not boil. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Right before serving, stir in about 1/4 cup of freshly chopped basil. For a smooth soup, blending is key. If using an immersion blender, keep it submerged and move it around. This ensures all parts get blended evenly. If using a regular blender, fill it only halfway. Hot soup can expand and cause spills. Always cover the lid with a kitchen towel to catch any splatters while blending. Cook time can vary. If you want deeper flavors, let the soup simmer longer. Just make sure to stir it to prevent sticking. You can also adjust the cook time based on how thick you want the soup. For a thicker soup, simmer longer without a lid. If you prefer it thinner, add more vegetable broth. Experiment to find your perfect balance! This creamy tomato basil soup is simple and comforting, perfect for any meal. For a detailed recipe, check out the Full Recipe. To boost the flavor of your creamy tomato basil soup, start with fresh herbs. Fresh basil adds a bright taste that dried herbs can't match. When you chop basil, do it just before adding it to the soup. This keeps its oils fresh and fragrant. Also, try roasting your tomatoes before adding them. It brings out their sweetness and depth. One common mistake is overcooking the garlic. It can turn bitter if you cook it too long. Add it after the onions are soft. Another mistake is not blending enough. A smooth texture makes the soup creamy and rich. If you don't blend well, you may miss out on that perfect mouthfeel. You can easily change this soup to fit your taste. Want a spicier kick? Add red pepper flakes when you sauté the onions. For a smoky flavor, toss in some smoked paprika. If you like a bit of tang, squeeze in some lemon juice before serving. You can also swap regular cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free option. For a heartier meal, stir in cooked pasta or quinoa. For more ideas, check out the Full Recipe! {{image_2}} To make a vegan creamy tomato basil soup, swap heavy cream with coconut cream. Coconut cream adds a rich taste without dairy. The rest of the recipe stays the same. You can still enjoy that creamy texture with plant-based goodness. Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. If you need a gluten-free soup, no worries. The main ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your broth is gluten-free. You can use vegetable broth from a trusted brand. This way, you can enjoy this hearty soup without any gluten issues. This soup works well for many occasions. For a cozy night, pair it with crusty bread. It also shines at gatherings with a fresh salad. For a fun twist, serve it with grilled cheese sandwiches. You can have a classic combo that everyone loves. You can find the full recipe to explore more ideas. To store leftover creamy tomato basil soup, let it cool first. Then, pour it into an airtight container. Make sure to seal the lid tightly. This keeps the soup fresh and prevents any odors from mixing in. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option. If you wish to freeze your soup, use freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top, as the soup may expand when frozen. You can also use freezer bags for easy storage. Just remember to label them with the date. The soup can stay fresh for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. When it's time to enjoy your soup, reheat it gently. You can use a pot on the stove over low heat. Stir it often to prevent sticking. If you prefer, you can microwave it in a bowl. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warmth. Adjust the texture by adding a splash of broth or cream if needed, making it just as creamy as before. Creamy tomato basil soup lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. Always check for any off-smell or change in color before eating. If you notice anything strange, it’s best to toss it out. Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. It actually tastes better the next day. Prepare the soup and let it cool. Then, store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it gently on the stove. Stir in the fresh basil right before serving for the best flavor. You can serve many things with creamy tomato basil soup. Here are some great ideas: - Grilled cheese sandwiches - Crusty bread or baguette - Salad with fresh greens - Garlic bread for a tasty side - Croutons for extra crunch These sides make the meal more filling and fun. Try different combinations to find your favorite pairing! For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. Creamy tomato basil soup is simple and delicious. We covered the right ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for best flavor. Remember to adjust for your tastes and special diets. You saw ways to store leftovers and enjoy this soup anytime. By following the steps, you can create a warming dish that everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking and share this delight with others!](https://greenmealmap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/65aef44b-68c0-465c-a155-94ce3578b6a0-250x250.webp)