Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

This creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or impressing guests at a dinner party, this soup delivers rich flavors and comforting textures. With its blend of tomatoes, fresh basil, and hidden vegetables, it’s not only delicious but also a healthy choice. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how it elevates any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This creamy Tomato Basil Soup can be made in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Rich: The combination of fresh ingredients creates a robust flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer, main course, or even served in a homemade bread bowl for an extra treat.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables like carrots, celery, and tomatoes, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; it stores well in the fridge.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient. Below are some essential tools you’ll need to make this creamy Tomato Basil Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Immersion blender or regular blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for making large batches of soup without spilling.
• Immersion blender: Allows you to puree the soup easily without transferring it to another container.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth roux by blending flour and butter without lumps.

Ingredients

This creamy Tomato Basil Soup is restaurant-quality DELICIOUS and it’s loaded with hidden vegetables.

Vegetables

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 2 14.5 ounce cans diced tomatoes (with the juice)
• 2 carrots (finely diced, about 1 cup)
• 1 small onion (finely diced, about 1 cup)
• 3 ribs celery (finely diced, about 1 cup)

Broth and Seasoning

• 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil leaves

Creamy Base

• ½ cup butter
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1½ cups half and half (or whole milk)

Final Touches

• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil

How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Add oil to a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add carrots, onions, and celery. Sauté them for a few minutes until they soften slightly.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, oregano, and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cook for several minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

Use an immersion blender or regular blender (you may need to do this in batches depending on your blender size) to puree the soup until smooth. This step is optional if you prefer a chunky texture. Return the blended soup to the pot.

Step 4: Prepare the Roux

In a separate pot over medium-low heat, melt butter. Stir in flour using a whisk. Keep whisking constantly for about 10 minutes until it turns golden brown.

Step 5: Combine Roux with Soup

Add a big ladle full of soup to the roux; it will form a thick paste. Add more scoops of soup to the roux gradually while stirring until smooth. Then pour this roux mixture back into the main soup pot.

Step 6: Finish with Creaminess

Stir in parmesan cheese, half-and-half (or milk), salt, pepper, and chopped basil. Adjust seasoning with additional oregano or basil if needed. Cook for a few more minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Store Leftovers

You can store any leftover creamy Tomato Basil Soup covered in your refrigerator for up to one week.

Step 8: Serve with Style

For an extra special presentation, try serving your delicious soup in homemade bread bowls!

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions that can enhance your dining experience.

In a Bread Bowl

• A homemade bread bowl adds a rustic touch. Hollow out a round loaf of sourdough or any hearty bread, and fill it with hot soup for a fun presentation.

With Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

• Pair your soup with crispy grilled cheese sandwiches. The gooey cheese and crunchy bread complement the creamy texture of the soup perfectly.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh basil elevates the flavor. Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or even a drizzle of olive oil on top right before serving.

Accompanied by Croutons

• Add crunchy croutons for texture. Store-bought or homemade croutons can add a delightful crunch to each spoonful of soup.

Served with Salad

• A light side salad balances the richness of the soup. Opt for a simple green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette for freshness.

With Parmesan Crisps

• Enjoy your soup alongside parmesan crisps. These add a savory crunch that pairs beautifully with the smoothness of creamy tomato basil soup.

SAVE THIS!

How to Perfect Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

To achieve restaurant-quality Creamy Tomato Basil Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use ripe tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor significantly. If using canned tomatoes, opt for high-quality brands for better taste.
• Don’t skip the roux: This thickening agent creates a velvety texture. Make sure to cook it until golden brown for depth of flavor.
• Blend thoroughly: For a smooth consistency, blend the soup well. An immersion blender works wonders for achieving that creamy finish.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking. Adding more salt, pepper, or herbs at different stages can help enhance flavors.
• Add cream slowly: When incorporating half-and-half or milk, do it gradually to prevent curdling and ensure even mixing.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like red pepper flakes or garlic powder to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Tomato Basil Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad topped with crunchy croutons complements the rich flavors of the soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
3. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup while adding an aromatic touch.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful roasted stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies provide a hearty option alongside your soup.
5. Veggie Platter: A selection of raw vegetables served with hummus offers a healthy crunch that balances well.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring sweetness and texture that pair nicely with the smoothness of the soup.
7. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses can make for an elegant pairing, enhancing the overall dining experience.
8. Spinach Artichoke Dip: This warm dip served with tortilla chips adds a creamy element that complements your meal perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Tomato Basil Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your results. Here are some tips to avoid them:

• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Using dried basil instead of fresh can make the soup taste flat. Always opt for fresh herbs when possible to enhance flavor.
• Skipping the Roux: Ignoring the roux step may result in a thin soup. The roux adds creaminess and thickness, so don’t skip this crucial part.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can lead to mushiness. Sauté just until tender for the best texture.
• Not Tasting as You Go: Failing to taste while cooking might leave you with an unseasoned soup. Adjust salt and spices throughout the process for balanced flavors.
• Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: Cheap canned tomatoes can ruin your soup’s flavor. Choose high-quality diced tomatoes for a richer taste.

SAVE THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• It is best used within three months for optimum flavor.

Reheating Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Simmer over low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Creamy Tomato Basil Soup that may help clarify your cooking process.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! You can substitute fresh tomatoes; however, you’ll need to peel and seed them first.

How can I make this soup vegan?

To make a vegan version of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup, replace butter with olive oil and use coconut milk instead of half and half.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with this soup?

Pair it with grilled cheese sandwiches or serve it in a bread bowl for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spices. It’s perfect for cozy nights or as an impressive dish for gatherings. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!