There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup that feels like a hug from the inside, especially when the weather turns chilly. This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Fresh Herbs is one of those recipes that instantly transports me back to cozy family dinners around the table. I remember my mom simmering a pot of this aromatic soup, its rich scent filling the kitchen, while we gathered to share stories of our day. Now, I’m thrilled to share this beloved recipe with you, hoping it brings the same warmth and comfort to your home.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
Imagine coming home after a long day, the chill of the evening wrapping around you, and having a bowl of this delightful soup waiting to warm you up. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the experience, the memories, and the comfort it brings.
-
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something wholesome and delicious without the fuss. The simplicity of its preparation is one of its greatest strengths, allowing you to focus on enjoying the meal rather than stressing over its creation. You can easily fit this into your schedule without compromising on flavor or quality.
-
Family-Friendly: Its creamy texture and fresh flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike, turning even the simplest meal into something special. Children are often fussy eaters, but the smooth, slightly sweet taste of this soup makes it appealing even to the pickiest palates. It’s a fantastic way to introduce more vegetables into a child’s diet without them even realizing it.
-
Nutritious: Packed with vitamins from tomatoes and basil, this soup is as healthy as it is comforting. Tomatoes are a great source of Vitamin C and K, while basil adds a touch of Vitamin A and iron to your diet. This soup offers both comfort and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious families.
-
Versatile: Enjoy it as a starter, a main course with crusty bread, or even an afternoon snack. Its versatility extends to its ability to be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Add a sprinkle of parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.
-
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. This makes it a perfect choice for those looking to save without sacrificing quality or taste. You can easily substitute or add ingredients based on what you have, making it a flexible recipe for any budget.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 180 per serving
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz canned whole tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions:
-
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. This step is crucial as the sautéing process releases the natural sweetness of the onions and the robust aroma of the garlic, forming the flavor base of the soup. If you prefer a more intense garlic flavor, feel free to add an extra clove or two.
-
Simmer the Soup: Add the canned tomatoes (with their juice) and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The simmering process allows the acidity of the tomatoes to mellow, creating a balanced flavor profile. You can crush the tomatoes with a spoon as they simmer to release more flavor.
-
Blend Until Smooth: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids to avoid any accidents. Remember to vent the blender lid to allow steam to escape.
-
Add the Cream: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and sugar, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes. The cream adds a rich texture and the sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, enhancing the overall flavor. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or milk.
-
Finish with Fresh Basil: Stir in the fresh basil just before serving, reserving a few leaves for garnish. The fresh basil adds a fragrant, refreshing finish to the soup, elevating its taste and aroma. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential:
-
Large Pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly. A heavy-bottomed pot will help prevent sticking and ensure even heating. It’s worth investing in a good quality pot as it can be used for a variety of dishes.
-
Immersion Blender: Makes pureeing the soup a breeze. It’s a versatile tool that’s not only useful for this recipe but for many others as well. If you don’t have one, a countertop blender works too—just be sure to blend in batches and handle hot liquids carefully.
-
Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping the onion and basil. A sharp knife speeds up the prep process and ensures clean cuts. Keeping your knives sharp is crucial for efficiency and safety in the kitchen.
-
Ladle: For serving the soup with ease. A ladle with a spout can help prevent spills, making serving neat and tidy.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
Understanding the benefits of each ingredient can deepen your appreciation of this soup:
-
Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is great for heart health. Lycopene has been linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Additionally, tomatoes are high in Vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system.
-
Basil: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and is packed with essential oils that have anti-inflammatory properties. It’s also a good source of Vitamin A and magnesium, promoting healthy skin and bones.
-
Garlic: A natural immune booster and adds depth to the soup’s flavor. Garlic is known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, contributing to overall wellness. It also contains allicin, which is believed to help lower cholesterol levels.
-
Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that helps in the absorption of nutrients. It contains monounsaturated fats and antioxidants that are beneficial for heart health. Olive oil also enhances the flavor of the dish, adding a subtle richness.
-
Heavy Cream: Adds a luxurious texture, making the soup creamy and satisfying. While it’s indulgent, it also provides a source of Vitamin D and calcium. If you’re watching your calorie intake, consider using a lighter cream or milk.
What to Serve With This Soup
Pairing the right side with this soup can elevate your dining experience:
This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combination. The crunch of the bread complements the smoothness of the soup. For a lighter option, serve it with a fresh green salad or alongside a simple pasta dish. You might also enjoy it with our Homemade Garlic Croutons or Cheesy Herb Breadsticks for a delightful crunch. Each pairing offers a different texture and flavor profile, enhancing the overall meal. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Proper storage ensures that the flavors of your soup remain intact:
Refrigerate: Allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This method retains the freshness and flavor, making it easy to enjoy a quick meal later. Be sure to label your containers with the date to keep track.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Freezing in portions allows for easy defrosting and minimizes waste. Consider using freezer-safe bags laid flat for compact storage.
Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Avoid boiling to prevent the cream from separating. Reheating slowly helps maintain the soup’s creamy texture and rich flavor. If reheating in the microwave, do so in short increments, stirring in between.
I hope this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Fresh Herbs becomes a cherished part of your family meals, just as it is in mine. Whether you’re enjoying it on a quiet evening or sharing it with loved ones, may it bring warmth and joy to your table. Happy cooking!
Easy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Trim the bottoms of the broccoli stems and cut off the broccoli heads. Cut the broccoli heads into quarters. Peel the broccoli stems and cut them into quarters crosswise.
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and cook the broccoli until tender when cut with a paring knife but still slightly firm, about 5 to 6 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked broccoli to a large bowl filled with cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain well.
- Arrange the broccoli in a colander with the florets facing down towards the holes of the colander and allow the broccoli to drip for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large serving bowl, whisk together the garlic, lemon juice, rice vinegar, Dijon mustard, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking rapidly until the dressing is thick and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to taste with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Toss the chilled broccoli with the dressing. Let it stand for 5 to 10 minutes to marinate, then toss again. For a cold salad, refrigerate for up to an hour before serving. Enjoy your flavorful broccoli salad!