Save to Pinterest A creamy, vibrant tomato and basil soup thats 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.
This soup reminds me of chilly evenings when the whole family gathers around the table for warmth and comfort.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion diced, 2 garlic cloves minced, 2 lbs (900 g) ripe tomatoes chopped (or 2 cans [28 oz] whole peeled tomatoes drained), 1 medium carrot peeled and diced
- Liquids: 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable stock (gluten-free if required), 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free option), 1 tbsp tomato paste
- Herbs & Seasonings: 1 tsp sugar (optional to balance acidity), 1/2 tsp salt or to taste, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat), 1/2 cup (15 g) fresh basil leaves packed plus extra for garnish
- Finishing: 2 tbsp unsalted butter (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 to Pinterest This recipe always brings back memories of family dinners filled with warmth and smiles.
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. For dairy-free or vegan diets, substitute coconut cream and omit butter. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 20 g, Protein: 4 g per serving
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This soup is the perfect addition to your cozy day recipes, ready in under an hour.
Recipe FAQs
- → What’s the best way to enhance tomato flavor?
Roasting fresh tomatoes before cooking elevates their sweetness and deepens the overall flavor, adding a smoky richness to the blend.
- → Can I substitute heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative?
Yes, coconut cream works well to maintain creaminess while keeping the dish dairy-free and suitable for vegan preferences.
- → How should fresh basil be added for best taste?
Stir fresh basil leaves in at the end of cooking to preserve their bright aroma and vibrant flavor without browning.
- → Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Adding crushed red pepper flakes during simmering adds subtle heat that complements the herbs and tomatoes nicely.
- → What sides complement this warm blend?
Crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich pairs excellently, providing texture contrast and enhancing the comforting nature of the meal.