Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

As the seasons shift and cooler weather sets in, many of us gravitate towards the warm embrace of comfort food. Among the myriad of dishes that evoke feelings of nostalgia and satisfaction, soup stands out as a quintessential choice. It not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul, making it an essential element of any fall or winter meal plan. One soup that has captured hearts and taste buds alike is the beloved creamy tomato basil soup. This classic dish combines the rich flavors of tomatoes and basil with a creamy texture that offers both comfort and indulgence.

Discover the warmth of homemade creamy tomato basil soup, a classic comfort food perfect for chilly days. This delightful dish combines rich tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a silky texture that invites you to savor every spoonful. Learn about the essential ingredients and simple preparation techniques that elevate this soup into a nourishing meal. Perfect with a side of grilled cheese or crusty bread, it's a cozy favorite that brings friends and family together. Enjoy creating memories with each delicious bowl!

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Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 carrot, diced

1 celery stalk, diced

1 can (28 oz) whole tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)

3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free version)

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus more for garnish)

1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Croutons, for serving

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the Tomatoes: Pour in the canned tomatoes, including the juice, and break them up with a spoon. Add the vegetable broth and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Blend the Soup: Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, pour the soup into a blender in batches and blend carefully.

Add Cream and Basil: Return the soup to the stove over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Heat through, but do not let it boil. If you'd like, add a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with extra fresh basil and croutons on top. Enjoy your comforting, creamy tomato basil soup!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

15 minutes | 40 minutes | Serves 4-6