Save to Pinterest 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 that we often enjoy on chilly evenings. Its simplicity and fresh ingredients make it special every time.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Ripe tomatoes: 2 lbs (900 g), chopped (or 2 cans [28 oz] whole peeled tomatoes, drained)
- Carrot: 1 medium, peeled and diced
- Vegetable stock: 3 cups (720 ml), gluten-free if required
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml) (or coconut cream for dairy-free option)
- Tomato paste: 1 tbsp
- Sugar: 1 tsp (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp, or to taste
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp freshly ground
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4 tsp (optional, for heat)
- Fresh basil leaves: 1/2 cup (15 g), packed, plus extra for garnish
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp (optional, for richness)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot, s&aut&e for 5 7 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 puré 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 to Pinterest This soup reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone gathers around the table to enjoy comfort food and share stories.
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 per serving. Total Fat: 13 g. Carbohydrates: 20 g. Protein: 4 g.
Save to Pinterest 
This soup can be easily customized to your taste with different herbs or by adjusting the creaminess. Enjoy your homemade comfort in a bowl!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, replace heavy cream with coconut cream and omit butter to keep the soup creamy without dairy.
- → What is the best way to enhance tomato flavor?
Roasting fresh tomatoes before cooking intensifies their sweetness and adds depth to the soup.
- → How do I achieve a smooth texture?
Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a countertop blender to purée until silky smooth.
- → Can I add extra heat to the soup?
Adding red pepper flakes provides gentle heat that complements the natural acidity of the tomatoes.
- → What sides pair well with this soup?
Crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich make excellent accompaniments for a satisfying meal.
- → Is the soup suitable for gluten-free diets?
Use gluten-free vegetable stock to ensure this soup is safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.