Pin It 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 quickly became a family favorite in chilly weather thanks to its balance of fresh herbs and rich creaminess.
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 57 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.
Pin It Making this soup always reminds me of cozy family dinners and sharing stories over a warm meal.
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
Pin It This soup is the perfect blend of comfort and freshness suitable for any season.
Your Questions Answered
- → How do I make the soup creamy without dairy?
Replace heavy cream and butter with coconut cream to keep the soup smooth and rich while maintaining a dairy-free profile.
- → Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh ripe tomatoes can be roasted beforehand to intensify their flavor before cooking, enhancing the soup's depth.
- → What herbs complement tomato and basil in this dish?
Fresh basil is key, but adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes and black pepper balances sweetness and adds subtle heat.
- → What sides pair well with this soup?
Crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich complement the creamy texture and rich flavors perfectly.
- → How long does the soup take to prepare and cook?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with 35 minutes of simmering for a total of roughly 50 minutes from start to finish.