Delicious Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting and delicious choice for chilly evenings or casual weeknight meals. This versatile soup can be paired with a salad or served alongside grilled cheese sandwiches to create a hearty meal. Let’s dive into the detailed steps of this creamy tomato basil soup recipe.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups canned tomatoes (crushed)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: additional chopped fresh basil for garnish

Cooking Time: 30 minutes, Servings: 4-6 people

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it shimmers, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.

Add the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth into the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly. Let this mixture simmer gently on low heat while you prepare the cream. Gently pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half, being careful not to let it splash out of the pot.

Once everything is combined well, taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed for seasoning. The amount may vary depending on your personal preference. If you like a bit more heat, you can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes at this stage to give an extra kick.

Simmer the mixture for another 10-15 minutes until all flavors meld together nicely and the soup thickens up slightly due to the reduction of liquid. During this time, you can also use a hand blender or immersion blender to puree some parts of the soup, making it creamier.

For an extra smooth texture, let the soup cool down for a few minutes until it’s just warm enough to handle safely, then transfer it into a regular blender in batches if needed. Blend each batch thoroughly before returning them back to the pot. You might need to do this two or three times to get that perfect creamy consistency.

When you’re satisfied with how smooth and flavorful your soup is, give it one final taste and adjust seasoning accordingly. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot straight from the pot or ladle into warm bowls for a cozy dining experience.

Tips & Variations

If you want to make this recipe vegan-friendly, simply replace the heavy cream with coconut milk. Alternatively, you could use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if you prefer not to include any animal products in your soup at all.

For those who enjoy spicier dishes, try adding some fresh jalapeños or serrano chilis along with the garlic and onion during the initial sautéing process. This will add a delightful heat to complement the sweet flavors of tomatoes beautifully.

Healthy Living Benefits

This creamy tomato basil soup offers several health benefits due to its nutrient-rich ingredients:

2. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and lycopene which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
4. Basil contains various important compounds including polyphenols, flavonoids, and carotenoids that can contribute to good overall health.
6. Healthy fats present in the cream add essential fatty acids supporting brain function and heart health.

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p>In conclusion, creamy tomato basil soup is more than just a comforting dish; it’s a nourishing addition to your diet. Its simplicity, affordability, and adaptability make it an excellent choice whether you're looking for something quick during busy weeks or planning ahead for cozy family gatherings. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors!