Save 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 has become a family favorite especially on chilly evenings when we crave something warm and soothing.
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.
Save Our family loves gathering around the table and sharing this soup as a warm and wholesome 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 per serving
Save
This tomato and basil soup is a simple yet elegant dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of tomatoes works best?
Ripe fresh tomatoes or high-quality canned whole peeled tomatoes offer the best flavor and texture for a vibrant, balanced outcome.
- → Can this be made dairy-free?
Yes, substituting heavy cream with coconut cream and omitting butter keeps it rich while accommodating dairy-free preferences.
- → How can I enhance the depth of flavor?
Roasting fresh tomatoes before cooking or adding roasted red peppers can boost sweetness and complexity.
- → What herbs complement this dish?
Fresh basil is essential, lending aroma and brightness; adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can introduce subtle heat.
- → What should I serve alongside this dish?
Crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich pair beautifully, balancing silky texture with crispy or chewy contrast.