Delicious Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting dish that has been a favorite in homes around the world for generations. This rich and savory soup is perfect for cold days when you just want something warm to sip on. The combination of fresh tomatoes, creamy broth, and aromatic basil creates a flavor profile that's hard to resist.

The recipe below will yield 4 servings and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients Needed for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped finely
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh tomatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth (vegetarian option)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, then sauté until the onions are translucent.

Step 2: Once the onions begin to soften, add the diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir well so that the tomato pieces are coated with oil. Let this mixture cook for about five minutes, allowing it to release its juices and become slightly softened but not overcooked.

Step 3: Next, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth depending on your preference. Bring everything to a boil before lowering the heat down to simmer gently for at least fifteen minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows all flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: After the soup has finished cooking, use an immersion blender (or carefully transfer portions of the hot mixture into a regular blender) and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending as steam can rise quickly from the container; you might want to cover it slightly with a towel while blending.

Step 5: Once blended to your desired consistency, return the soup back to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and dried basil. Season according to taste with salt and pepper. Cook for another few minutes until heated through but not boiling again.

Step 6: Finally, if you like, garnish each serving with some fresh basil leaves for extra freshness and color. Your Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is now ready to enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• If you prefer a thinner soup consistency, add more broth. For a thicker texture, omit part of the cream or use evaporated milk instead.
• To make it spicier, consider adding some cayenne pepper or jalapeños during cooking time.
• For a vegetarian option, ensure your vegetable broth is free from any meat derivatives like gelatin. You could also add more vegetables such as carrots and zucchini for extra fiber and nutrients.

Nutritional Information per Serving

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup offers not only delicious taste but also nutritional benefits depending on its ingredients choice. On average, each serving contains approximately:

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Total Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 5g

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is more than just a meal – it's an invitation to slow down, savor the flavors, and share moments with loved ones. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with bread and butter, this soup provides comfort and satisfaction that can uplift even the darkest of days.