Save A creamy, vibrant tomato and basil soup that's 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.
I always find this soup perfect for chilly evenings. The flavors meld beautifully and it's a hit with my family every time.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Ripe tomatoes: 2 lbs (900 g), chopped (or 2 cans [28 oz] whole peeled tomatoes, drained)
- Carrot: 1 medium, peeled and diced
- Vegetable stock: 3 cups (720 ml), gluten-free if required
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml), or coconut cream for dairy-free option
- Tomato paste: 1 tbsp
- Sugar: 1 tsp optional, to balance acidity
- Salt: 1/2 tsp or to taste
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp freshly ground
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4 tsp optional, for heat
- Fresh basil leaves: 1/2 cup (15 g), packed plus extra for garnish
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp optional, for richness
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot, sauté for 5–7 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 soup always brings back warm family memories of cozy dinners and shared stories around the table.
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. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210 per serving. Total Fat: 13 g. Carbohydrates: 20 g. Protein: 4 g.
Save This tomato basil soup is a simple yet impressive dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of tomatoes works best?
Fresh ripe tomatoes provide natural sweetness, but canned whole peeled tomatoes offer convenience and consistent flavor.
- → How can I make the soup dairy-free?
Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and skip the butter to create a rich, dairy-free version without sacrificing creaminess.
- → Can I add heat to this tomato basil mix?
Yes, adding crushed red pepper flakes during cooking introduces a subtle warmth that complements the herbs elegantly.
- → Is it better to blend the soup smooth or leave it chunky?
Blending creates a silky texture that enhances comfort, but you can also pulse gently for a chunkier, rustic finish.
- → What sides pair well with this tomato basil dish?
Crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich balances the flavors and creates a satisfying meal experience.