Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Smooth and rich tomato soup with fresh basil, perfect for dipping grilled cheese.
Details
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28oz) whole plum tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- 1
Sauté onion and garlic in butter until soft.
- 2
Add tomatoes (with juice) and broth. Simmer for 20 minutes.
- 3
Puree soup using an immersion blender.
- 4
Stir in heavy cream and fresh basil.
- 5
Season to taste and serve hot.
About This Recipe
The quintessential bowl of comfort, tomato basil soup holds a cherished place in American culinary tradition, often evoking nostalgic memories of childhood lunches paired with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich. While humble in its origins, a truly exceptional creamy tomato basil soup is a testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients executed with care. Its magic lies in the harmonious interplay of sweet, ripe tomatoes, aromatic fresh basil, and the lush embrace of heavy cream. The choice of whole plum tomatoes, ideally San Marzano, is paramount; their deep, concentrated flavor forms the backbone of the soup, which is then patiently simmered to allow the flavors to meld before being blended to a velvety smoothness. A key technique involves gently sautéing the onion and garlic to build a flavorful foundation, then allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices. The final swirl of fresh cream and a generous handful of fragrant basil transforms it from a mere vegetable broth into a luxurious, soul-warming experience. Beyond its classic grilled cheese companion, this soup shines with a crusty baguette for dipping, or even as a starter before a light main course. Variations might include roasting the tomatoes for deeper caramelization or a hint of smoked paprika for an added dimension.
Tips & Tricks
- • For maximum creaminess and vibrant basil flavor, stir in the heavy cream and fresh basil just after blending and reheating, but before the soup comes back to a hard boil. This prevents the cream from separating and preserves the basil's fresh aroma.
- • To deepen the flavor profile, consider roasting the canned whole tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt before adding them to the pot. Alternatively, a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of balsamic vinegar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
- • This soup base freezes exceptionally well. Prepare the soup through the blending step, then freeze it without adding the heavy cream or fresh basil. When ready to serve, thaw, reheat, and then stir in the cream and basil for a fresh finish.
- • Elevate your serving with homemade croutons or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. A swirl of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a few extra fresh basil leaves also add a gourmet touch and visual appeal.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (approximate)