![- 4 cups fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of peeled whole tomatoes) - 1 medium onion, finely diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth - 1 cup heavy cream (or for a dairy-free alternative, use coconut cream) - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity) - Extra virgin olive oil - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste For this creamy tomato basil soup, the main ingredients create a rich and tasty base. Fresh ripe tomatoes bring sweetness and flavor. If fresh tomatoes are not in season, canned whole tomatoes work great too. Onion and garlic add depth and warmth to the soup. They create a strong aroma when sautéed. Fresh basil gives a bright, herbal note that makes the soup feel fresh and vibrant. I use vegetable broth for a savory backdrop. The heavy cream adds richness, while coconut cream gives a nice dairy-free option. The optional sugar can balance out any acidity in the tomatoes, making the soup taste just right. Salt and freshly cracked black pepper are key to adjusting the flavor. These seasonings help bring all the ingredients together. Check out the [Full Recipe] for the detailed steps and tips to make your soup perfect! 1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion. Cook for about 5 minutes. The onion should be soft and slightly golden. Then, add the minced garlic. Cook for one more minute. Stir continuously until the garlic smells great but does not burn. 2. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Next, add the chopped fresh tomatoes to the pot. If you use canned tomatoes, crush them gently as you add them. Pour in the vegetable broth. Stir everything together. This mixture forms the base of your creamy tomato basil soup. 3. Simmer the Soup for Flavor Development: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Keep the heat low if needed. Let it cook uncovered for about 20 minutes. This step helps all the flavors blend together. 4. Blending Techniques for Desired Texture: After simmering, turn off the heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer some texture, blend only half of it. This gives a nice contrast in your soup. 5. Stir in Cream and Basil: Place the pot back on low heat. Slowly add the heavy cream or coconut cream. Then, stir in the roughly chopped basil leaves. Warm the soup for about 5 minutes. Be sure it does not boil. 6. Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Now, taste your creamy tomato basil bliss. You might want to add sugar, salt, or freshly cracked black pepper. Adjust these to enhance the flavor just the way you like it. You can find the full recipe for more detailed steps. For a dairy-free option, you can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. It gives a nice richness while keeping it vegan. If you use canned tomatoes, choose whole peeled tomatoes for better flavor. They taste fresher than diced ones. Balancing acidity is key in a tomato soup. Adding a touch of sugar helps cut the acidity. Start with a teaspoon and taste as you go. For seasoning, always use fresh salt and cracked black pepper. It makes a big difference in taste. I recommend using a large pot for the soup. A heavy-bottomed pot helps distribute heat evenly. An immersion blender is perfect for blending. It saves time and makes clean-up easy. Remember to taste the soup as you cook. Adjust flavors until you love it. {{image_4}} If you want your creamy tomato basil soup even richer, consider adding cheese. You can mix in grated Parmesan or creamy goat cheese. Both options melt well and give a great flavor boost. This extra touch makes the soup truly indulgent. Now, let’s talk about cream. Heavy cream adds a velvety texture that feels luxurious. Coconut cream, on the other hand, offers a dairy-free alternative. It has a unique taste that pairs well with tomatoes. Both options make your soup taste rich and smooth. Choose what fits your needs best. Incorporating seasonal vegetables can enhance your soup. For example, adding zucchini or bell peppers can give it a fresh twist. You can also toss in some corn for sweetness. These additions not only boost nutrition but also add color and flavor. If you like spice, try making a spicy tomato basil soup. Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring heat. This variation creates a whole new experience, perfect for those who enjoy a kick. Garnishing your soup can elevate its look. Fresh basil leaves on top add a pop of green. A drizzle of olive oil can also enhance the color and flavor. You might even sprinkle some croutons for crunch. When serving, pair your creamy tomato basil soup with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich. These sides complement the soup perfectly and make for a comforting meal. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To keep your creamy tomato basil soup fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let the soup cool down before sealing it. This helps avoid moisture buildup. - Refrigeration: Place the container in the fridge. It stays good for about 3 to 4 days. - Freezing: If you want to store it longer, freezing works well. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand. It can last for about 2 to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy your soup again, reheating is key. You want to keep it creamy and smooth. - Stovetop Method: Pour the soup into a pot. Heat it over low to medium heat. Stir it often to avoid burning. - Microwave Method: Put the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it loosely to let steam escape. Heat for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Aim for a temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe eating and the best flavor. Knowing how long your soup lasts is important for safety and taste. - In the Fridge: Your creamy tomato basil soup lasts about 3 to 4 days. - In the Freezer: It can be stored for 2 to 3 months. Just be sure to label your container with the date. This way, you always know when to use it. For the full recipe, check out [Full Recipe]. Enjoy your cooking! Yes, you can use dried basil. However, the flavor is different. Fresh basil has a bright, sweet taste. Dried basil is more intense and less fresh. If using dried basil, use about 1 teaspoon for every tablespoon of fresh. Add it earlier in the cooking process to release its flavor. This soup is not vegan because it contains heavy cream. To make it vegan, replace heavy cream with coconut cream. Use vegetable broth and ensure your tomatoes are canned in their juices. This will keep the flavors rich while making it plant-based. Creamy tomato basil soup pairs well with many dishes. Try it with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combo. You can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping. A light salad on the side adds freshness. For drinks, a glass of white wine or iced tea complements the soup nicely. Enjoy your meal with these simple sides! This blog post covered how to make a delicious creamy tomato basil soup. We started with the key ingredients, like fresh tomatoes and herbs. Then, we walked through the cooking steps from sautéing to blending. I shared tips for flavor, substitutions, and cooking tools. You also learned about variations, storage, and reheating methods. Now, you can create an amazing soup that warms the heart. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and making it your own!](https://lazychefmagic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/781fd6a9-c78f-4fbf-85b3-51b14a23c16c-768x768.webp)
Are you craving a bowl of comfort that’s simple to make? This creamy tomato basil soup is both flavorful and easy! Using fresh tomatoes or canned ones, you’ll blend rich flavors with hints of basil, garlic, and just the right creaminess. Perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe promises warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. Let’s dive into how you can whip this up at home!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
– 4 cups fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of peeled whole tomatoes)
– 1 medium onion, finely diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (or for a dairy-free alternative, use coconut cream)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Optional Ingredients
– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
– Extra virgin olive oil
Seasonings
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
For this creamy tomato basil soup, the main ingredients create a rich and tasty base. Fresh ripe tomatoes bring sweetness and flavor. If fresh tomatoes are not in season, canned whole tomatoes work great too.
Onion and garlic add depth and warmth to the soup. They create a strong aroma when sautéed. Fresh basil gives a bright, herbal note that makes the soup feel fresh and vibrant.
I use vegetable broth for a savory backdrop. The heavy cream adds richness, while coconut cream gives a nice dairy-free option. The optional sugar can balance out any acidity in the tomatoes, making the soup taste just right.
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper are key to adjusting the flavor. These seasonings help bring all the ingredients together.
Check out the [Full Recipe] for the detailed steps and tips to make your soup perfect!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Base
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion. Cook for about 5 minutes. The onion should be soft and slightly golden. Then, add the minced garlic. Cook for one more minute. Stir continuously until the garlic smells great but does not burn.
2. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Next, add the chopped fresh tomatoes to the pot. If you use canned tomatoes, crush them gently as you add them. Pour in the vegetable broth. Stir everything together. This mixture forms the base of your creamy tomato basil soup.
Cooking Process
3. Simmer the Soup for Flavor Development: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Keep the heat low if needed. Let it cook uncovered for about 20 minutes. This step helps all the flavors blend together.
4. Blending Techniques for Desired Texture: After simmering, turn off the heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer some texture, blend only half of it. This gives a nice contrast in your soup.
Final Steps
5. Stir in Cream and Basil: Place the pot back on low heat. Slowly add the heavy cream or coconut cream. Then, stir in the roughly chopped basil leaves. Warm the soup for about 5 minutes. Be sure it does not boil.
6. Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Now, taste your creamy tomato basil bliss. You might want to add sugar, salt, or freshly cracked black pepper. Adjust these to enhance the flavor just the way you like it. You can find the full recipe for more detailed steps.
Tips & Tricks
Ingredient Substitutions
For a dairy-free option, you can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. It gives a nice richness while keeping it vegan. If you use canned tomatoes, choose whole peeled tomatoes for better flavor. They taste fresher than diced ones.
Perfecting the Flavor
Balancing acidity is key in a tomato soup. Adding a touch of sugar helps cut the acidity. Start with a teaspoon and taste as you go. For seasoning, always use fresh salt and cracked black pepper. It makes a big difference in taste.
Cooking Tools
I recommend using a large pot for the soup. A heavy-bottomed pot helps distribute heat evenly. An immersion blender is perfect for blending. It saves time and makes clean-up easy. Remember to taste the soup as you cook. Adjust flavors until you love it.
Variations
For Extra Creaminess
If you want your creamy tomato basil soup even richer, consider adding cheese. You can mix in grated Parmesan or creamy goat cheese. Both options melt well and give a great flavor boost. This extra touch makes the soup truly indulgent.
Now, let’s talk about cream. Heavy cream adds a velvety texture that feels luxurious. Coconut cream, on the other hand, offers a dairy-free alternative. It has a unique taste that pairs well with tomatoes. Both options make your soup taste rich and smooth. Choose what fits your needs best.
Seasonal Additions
Incorporating seasonal vegetables can enhance your soup. For example, adding zucchini or bell peppers can give it a fresh twist. You can also toss in some corn for sweetness. These additions not only boost nutrition but also add color and flavor.
If you like spice, try making a spicy tomato basil soup. Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring heat. This variation creates a whole new experience, perfect for those who enjoy a kick.
Presentation Ideas
Garnishing your soup can elevate its look. Fresh basil leaves on top add a pop of green. A drizzle of olive oil can also enhance the color and flavor. You might even sprinkle some croutons for crunch.
When serving, pair your creamy tomato basil soup with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich. These sides complement the soup perfectly and make for a comforting meal. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].
Storage Info
How to Store
To keep your creamy tomato basil soup fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let the soup cool down before sealing it. This helps avoid moisture buildup.
– Refrigeration: Place the container in the fridge. It stays good for about 3 to 4 days.
– Freezing: If you want to store it longer, freezing works well. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand. It can last for about 2 to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Techniques
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, reheating is key. You want to keep it creamy and smooth.
– Stovetop Method: Pour the soup into a pot. Heat it over low to medium heat. Stir it often to avoid burning.
– Microwave Method: Put the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it loosely to let steam escape. Heat for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Aim for a temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe eating and the best flavor.
Shelf Life
Knowing how long your soup lasts is important for safety and taste.
– In the Fridge: Your creamy tomato basil soup lasts about 3 to 4 days.
– In the Freezer: It can be stored for 2 to 3 months. Just be sure to label your container with the date. This way, you always know when to use it.
For the full recipe, check out [Full Recipe]. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQs
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried basil. However, the flavor is different. Fresh basil has a bright, sweet taste. Dried basil is more intense and less fresh. If using dried basil, use about 1 teaspoon for every tablespoon of fresh. Add it earlier in the cooking process to release its flavor.
Is this soup vegan-friendly?
This soup is not vegan because it contains heavy cream. To make it vegan, replace heavy cream with coconut cream. Use vegetable broth and ensure your tomatoes are canned in their juices. This will keep the flavors rich while making it plant-based.
What are some serving suggestions with this soup?
Creamy tomato basil soup pairs well with many dishes. Try it with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combo. You can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping. A light salad on the side adds freshness. For drinks, a glass of white wine or iced tea complements the soup nicely. Enjoy your meal with these simple sides!
This blog post covered how to make a delicious creamy tomato basil soup. We started with the key ingredients, like fresh tomatoes and herbs. Then, we walked through the cooking steps from sautéing to blending. I shared tips for flavor, substitutions, and cooking tools. You also learned about variations, storage, and reheating methods.
Now, you can create an amazing soup that warms the heart. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and making it your own!
![- 4 cups fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of peeled whole tomatoes) - 1 medium onion, finely diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth - 1 cup heavy cream (or for a dairy-free alternative, use coconut cream) - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity) - Extra virgin olive oil - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste For this creamy tomato basil soup, the main ingredients create a rich and tasty base. Fresh ripe tomatoes bring sweetness and flavor. If fresh tomatoes are not in season, canned whole tomatoes work great too. Onion and garlic add depth and warmth to the soup. They create a strong aroma when sautéed. Fresh basil gives a bright, herbal note that makes the soup feel fresh and vibrant. I use vegetable broth for a savory backdrop. The heavy cream adds richness, while coconut cream gives a nice dairy-free option. The optional sugar can balance out any acidity in the tomatoes, making the soup taste just right. Salt and freshly cracked black pepper are key to adjusting the flavor. These seasonings help bring all the ingredients together. Check out the [Full Recipe] for the detailed steps and tips to make your soup perfect! 1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion. Cook for about 5 minutes. The onion should be soft and slightly golden. Then, add the minced garlic. Cook for one more minute. Stir continuously until the garlic smells great but does not burn. 2. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Next, add the chopped fresh tomatoes to the pot. If you use canned tomatoes, crush them gently as you add them. Pour in the vegetable broth. Stir everything together. This mixture forms the base of your creamy tomato basil soup. 3. Simmer the Soup for Flavor Development: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Keep the heat low if needed. Let it cook uncovered for about 20 minutes. This step helps all the flavors blend together. 4. Blending Techniques for Desired Texture: After simmering, turn off the heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer some texture, blend only half of it. This gives a nice contrast in your soup. 5. Stir in Cream and Basil: Place the pot back on low heat. Slowly add the heavy cream or coconut cream. Then, stir in the roughly chopped basil leaves. Warm the soup for about 5 minutes. Be sure it does not boil. 6. Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Now, taste your creamy tomato basil bliss. You might want to add sugar, salt, or freshly cracked black pepper. Adjust these to enhance the flavor just the way you like it. You can find the full recipe for more detailed steps. For a dairy-free option, you can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. It gives a nice richness while keeping it vegan. If you use canned tomatoes, choose whole peeled tomatoes for better flavor. They taste fresher than diced ones. Balancing acidity is key in a tomato soup. Adding a touch of sugar helps cut the acidity. Start with a teaspoon and taste as you go. For seasoning, always use fresh salt and cracked black pepper. It makes a big difference in taste. I recommend using a large pot for the soup. A heavy-bottomed pot helps distribute heat evenly. An immersion blender is perfect for blending. It saves time and makes clean-up easy. Remember to taste the soup as you cook. Adjust flavors until you love it. {{image_4}} If you want your creamy tomato basil soup even richer, consider adding cheese. You can mix in grated Parmesan or creamy goat cheese. Both options melt well and give a great flavor boost. This extra touch makes the soup truly indulgent. Now, let’s talk about cream. Heavy cream adds a velvety texture that feels luxurious. Coconut cream, on the other hand, offers a dairy-free alternative. It has a unique taste that pairs well with tomatoes. Both options make your soup taste rich and smooth. Choose what fits your needs best. Incorporating seasonal vegetables can enhance your soup. For example, adding zucchini or bell peppers can give it a fresh twist. You can also toss in some corn for sweetness. These additions not only boost nutrition but also add color and flavor. If you like spice, try making a spicy tomato basil soup. Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring heat. This variation creates a whole new experience, perfect for those who enjoy a kick. Garnishing your soup can elevate its look. Fresh basil leaves on top add a pop of green. A drizzle of olive oil can also enhance the color and flavor. You might even sprinkle some croutons for crunch. When serving, pair your creamy tomato basil soup with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich. These sides complement the soup perfectly and make for a comforting meal. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To keep your creamy tomato basil soup fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let the soup cool down before sealing it. This helps avoid moisture buildup. - Refrigeration: Place the container in the fridge. It stays good for about 3 to 4 days. - Freezing: If you want to store it longer, freezing works well. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand. It can last for about 2 to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy your soup again, reheating is key. You want to keep it creamy and smooth. - Stovetop Method: Pour the soup into a pot. Heat it over low to medium heat. Stir it often to avoid burning. - Microwave Method: Put the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it loosely to let steam escape. Heat for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Aim for a temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe eating and the best flavor. Knowing how long your soup lasts is important for safety and taste. - In the Fridge: Your creamy tomato basil soup lasts about 3 to 4 days. - In the Freezer: It can be stored for 2 to 3 months. Just be sure to label your container with the date. This way, you always know when to use it. For the full recipe, check out [Full Recipe]. Enjoy your cooking! Yes, you can use dried basil. However, the flavor is different. Fresh basil has a bright, sweet taste. Dried basil is more intense and less fresh. If using dried basil, use about 1 teaspoon for every tablespoon of fresh. Add it earlier in the cooking process to release its flavor. This soup is not vegan because it contains heavy cream. To make it vegan, replace heavy cream with coconut cream. Use vegetable broth and ensure your tomatoes are canned in their juices. This will keep the flavors rich while making it plant-based. Creamy tomato basil soup pairs well with many dishes. Try it with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combo. You can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping. A light salad on the side adds freshness. For drinks, a glass of white wine or iced tea complements the soup nicely. Enjoy your meal with these simple sides! This blog post covered how to make a delicious creamy tomato basil soup. We started with the key ingredients, like fresh tomatoes and herbs. Then, we walked through the cooking steps from sautéing to blending. I shared tips for flavor, substitutions, and cooking tools. You also learned about variations, storage, and reheating methods. Now, you can create an amazing soup that warms the heart. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and making it your own!](https://lazychefmagic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/781fd6a9-c78f-4fbf-85b3-51b14a23c16c-250x250.webp)
