Pin it A velvety, comforting tomato soup with fresh basil and a swirl of cream—perfect for busy weeknights yet full of flavor.
This soup has become a favorite in our home for its creamy texture and fresh basil aroma.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Carrot: 1 large, peeled and diced
- Diced tomatoes: 2 cans (14.5 oz/410 g each), with juice
- Tomato paste: 1 tbsp
- Vegetable broth: 2 cups (480 ml)
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml), plus extra for serving
- Sugar: 1 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4 tsp (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- Fresh basil leaves: 1 cup (25 g), chopped, plus extra for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Step 2:
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, vegetable broth, sugar, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
- Step 4:
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are very soft.
- Step 5:
- Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil.
- Step 6:
- Use an immersion blender (or transfer in batches to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
- Step 7:
- Return soup to low heat, stir in heavy cream, and warm through without boiling.
- Step 8:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 9:
- Ladle into bowls, swirl with extra cream, and garnish with basil.
Pin it My family loves gathering around this soup on chilly evenings, sharing stories and enjoying its warmth.
Notes
For added depth, sauté a pinch of smoked paprika with the onions.
Required Tools
Large saucepan, immersion blender or countertop blender, ladle, chef's knife and cutting board.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (heavy cream). Free from nuts, eggs, and gluten (if using gluten-free broth). Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Pin it
This creamy tomato basil soup is sure to become a weeknight favorite with its simple prep and rich flavor.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How can I make the soup vegan?
Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or another plant-based alternative to maintain the creamy texture without dairy.
- → What tools are needed to prepare this dish?
A large saucepan and an immersion blender or countertop blender are essential to cook and puree the soup smoothly.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, add crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or omit them for a milder flavor profile.
- → What are good accompaniments for this soup?
Serve with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches to complement the creamy texture and enhance the meal.
- → How long does it take to prepare?
The total time is about 35 minutes, including 10 minutes for prep and 25 minutes for cooking and simmering.