Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon olive oil; 2 14.5 ounce cans diced tomatoes (with the juice); 1 cup carrots (finely diced); 1 cup onion (finely diced); 1 cup celery (finely diced); 2 Tablespoons tomato paste; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 teaspoon Dried oregano; 1.5 teaspoons dried basil leaves; 0.5 cup butter; 0.5 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1.5 cups half and half ((or whole milk)); 1 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 0.25 cup chopped fresh basil

Introduction to Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

What is Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

Creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting classic that brings together the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil, all blended into a velvety, satisfying bowl of goodness. This delightful dish is much more than your average tomato soup; the addition of cream gives it a luxurious texture and depth that makes it perfect for chilly evenings or as a starter for a cozy dinner.

Have you ever wandered into a café, drawn by the scent of freshly made tomato soup? That warm, inviting aroma is often a prelude to a delicious experience filled with nostalgia. Creamy tomato basil soup captures that essence! It's not just filling, but it also packs in vibrant nutrients. Rich in vitamins A and C, tomatoes are low in calories yet high in flavor, while fresh basil adds an aromatic brightness that complements the dish perfectly.

Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a sophisticated starter for entertaining, this creamy tomato basil soup is versatile and simple to make. Plus, it's a fantastic way to impress your friends and family with minimal effort. Dive into this delicious recipe and enjoy a bowl of comfort. If you’re curious about making it from scratch, let’s explore the ingredients and steps!

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

When it comes to whipping up a cozy bowl of creamy tomato basil soup, having the right ingredients can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious dish to life:

Olive Oil: 1 Tablespoon for sautéing the veggies
Diced Tomatoes: 2 cans (14.5 ounces each), including their juice for extra flavor
Carrots: 2, finely diced (about 1 cup) to add natural sweetness
Onion: 1 small, finely diced (around 1 cup) for depth of flavor
Celery: 3 ribs, finely diced (approximately 1 cup) for a crunchy texture
Tomato Paste: 2 Tablespoons to enhance the rich tomato taste
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: 4 cups for a savory base
Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon for aromatic notes
Dried Basil Leaves: 1 ½ teaspoons to boost the herbal profile
Butter: ½ cup for creaminess
All-Purpose Flour: ½ cup to thicken the soup
Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated for that cheesy goodness
Half and Half: 1½ cups (or whole milk) to achieve that creamy texture
Salt and Pepper: 1 teaspoon and ¼ teaspoon respectively to taste
Fresh Basil: ¼ cup, chopped for finishing touches

Gather these ingredients, and you're on your way to savoring a delightful bowl of creamy tomato basil soup! Need alternatives? Check out this resource for more options.

Preparing Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

If you're looking to warm up on a chilly evening or simply indulging in a cozy meal, this creamy tomato basil soup is your go-to! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making it in your own kitchen; it’s easier than you think!

Sauté the vegetables

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add finely diced carrots, onions, and celery. Sauté these aromatic beauties for about 5 minutes until they're soft and the kitchen is filled with that inviting scent of sautéing vegetables. This mixture, often referred to as mirepoix, is the flavor base for your soup! You could even throw in some minced garlic if you want to enhance the flavor further (and who wouldn't?).

Combine tomatoes and broth

Once your vegetables are sautéed to perfection, it's time to add two cans of diced tomatoes (with juice) and four cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Don't forget to mix in tomato paste, dried oregano, and basil as well. Bring this blend to a gentle boil, allowing the ingredients to harmonize beautifully for around 10 minutes. You want those veggies to be tender but still have a bit of bite.

Blend until smooth

Now comes the fun part - it's time to blend it all together! If you have an immersion blender, this is a breeze; just blend the soup right in the pot until it's velvety smooth. If you’re using a regular blender, do it in batches to avoid overflow. This step is optional, of course, but trust me, it adds to that luxurious mouthfeel we love in creamy tomato basil soup.

Make the roux

In a separate pot over medium-low heat, melt ½ cup of butter. Stir in ½ cup of all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for about 10 minutes until the roux takes on a beautiful golden-brown color. Why go through this extra step? A roux thickens your soup and gives it that restaurant-quality texture.

Combine the roux and soup

Now, this is where the magic happens. Add a ladle full of your soup to the roux, stirring until it forms a thick paste. Gradually mix in more soup until it’s smooth, then combine this mixture back into your main pot with the rest of the soup. Stir well to ensure it’s completely blended.

Stir in cheese and cream

Finally, it’s time to elevate your soup. Stir in one cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese, 1½ cups of half-and-half (or whole milk for those watching calories), along with salt, pepper, and chopped fresh basil. Give it one last stir and cook for a few additional minutes until warm. Now you’re ready to serve!

Serve your creamy tomato basil soup in a cozy bowl, perhaps with a side of homemade bread for dipping. Enjoy!

Variations on Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Spicy Tomato Basil Soup

If you’re in the mood for a kick, transform your creamy tomato basil soup into a spicy delight! Simply add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the veggies. For an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating a splash of hot sauce or smoky chipotle powder. Your taste buds will thank you!

Add-ins for Extra Flavor

Get creative with your creamy tomato basil soup! Adding fresh ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers can enhance the depth of flavor. You might even try mixing in some turkey bacon for a savory crunch, or a handful of fresh basil for that vibrant finish. It’s all about making it your own! For even more ideas, check out Food Network’s suggestions.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Making creamy tomato basil soup is simple, but a few tips can elevate your dish even further!

Fresh Basil: Use fresh basil for a burst of flavor. It’s a game changer compared to dried.
Blending: If you prefer a chunkier soup, skip the blending step. This gives your soup texture and heartiness.
Personalize It: Feel free to add extras like sautéed Turkey bacon or Chicken ham for a savory twist.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week. It reheats beautifully on the stove!
Serving Suggestions: Pair with grilled cheese or serve in a homemade bread bowl for a hearty meal.

Try it and share your thoughts!

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Looking for the perfect pairings for your creamy tomato basil soup? Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience:

Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic companion! Opt for a three-cheese grilled cheese with mozzarella, cheddar, and a hint of parmesan for a gooey delight.
Homemade Bread Bowls: Serve the soup in homemade bread bowls for a rustic twist. It’s an impressive way to present this comforting dish.
Turkey Bacon Crumbles: For a savory crunch, top the soup with crispy turkey bacon crumbles. They add flavor and texture that enhances the overall experience.
Fresh Basil Garnish: Sprinkle extra chopped basil on top just before serving for that fresh, aromatic boost.

These ideas will not only complement the flavors of your soup but also make your meal feel more thoughtful and satisfying!

Time Details for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Preparation Time
Get ready for a delicious cooking experience! The preparation for your creamy tomato basil soup will take about 15 minutes. This includes chopping the fresh veggies that add such vibrant flavors.

Cooking Time
Cooking the soup will take around 30 minutes, allowing all those rich flavors to meld perfectly. You might find this to be the most rewarding part of the whole process!

Total Time
In just 45 minutes, you’ll have a warm, comforting bowl of creamy tomato basil soup ready to enjoy. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

For extra tips on enhancing your soup, check out our guide on how to elevate your simple soups for even more ideas!

Nutritional Information for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Calories
A hearty serving of creamy tomato basil soup contains approximately 264 calories, making it a comforting yet not overly indulgent choice for lunch or dinner.

Protein
With about 7 grams of protein per serving, this soup is a simple way to boost your daily intake, especially when paired with a side like a grilled cheese sandwich.

Sodium
It’s important to be mindful of sodium, as one serving of this delightful soup has around 1,095 mg. Opt for low-sodium broth to keep it flavorful without going overboard on salt. For more tips on low-sodium cooking, consider checking out resources from the American Heart Association.

FAQs about Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! To create a vegan version of creamy tomato basil soup, simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter. You can also swap the half-and-half for coconut milk or a non-dairy cream. For a cheese substitute, try nutritional yeast or a store-bought vegan parmesan. This way, you can enjoy this comforting dish without compromising your dietary preferences!

What can I use instead of fresh basil?

If fresh basil isn't available, dried basil works well too! Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh. Alternatively, other fresh herbs like oregano or parsley can add a delightful twist to your creamy tomato basil soup. Just keep in mind that the flavor might differ slightly.

Can I freeze creamy tomato basil soup?

Yes, you can freeze creamy tomato basil soup! However, for the best results, omit the cream and cheese before freezing. Once you’re ready to enjoy, reheat your soup on the stove and stir in the cream and cheese at the end to prevent curdling. If you need more tips on freezing soup effectively, check out this guide for hassle-free instructions.

Conclusion on Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

In summary, this creamy tomato basil soup is a delightful bowl of warmth and comfort that’s perfect for any occasion. With vibrant flavors and a smooth texture, it’s not just a quick meal but a solid boost of nutrients. Enjoy with fresh bread or alone for a satisfying experience!