Delicious Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Creamy tomato basil soup is a beloved classic that you can prepare in your kitchen easily with the right ingredients and techniques. This comforting bowl of soup is both rich and flavorful, making it perfect for chilly autumn evenings or a light meal on a warm summer day. In this article, we will explore how to create this delicious creamy tomato basil soup, including all necessary steps, cooking time, number of servings, and tips for the best results.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4 generous portions

Ingredients You Will Need

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
• 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced thinly
• 1 celery stalk, sliced thinly
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 6 medium tomatoes, diced finely (about 4 cups)
• ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 teaspoon dried basil, crumbled
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

To start, gather all the necessary ingredients. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a baking sheet inside.

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until they are slightly golden brown. This should take about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic to the mix and stir for another minute or so, ensuring that you don't burn it as this can impart a bitter taste.
3. Once your vegetables have softened, add diced tomatoes. Stir gently but thoroughly; allow everything to cook together for around 2-3 more minutes to release the juices from the tomatoes.
4. Pour in eight cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth and bring this mixture to a boil. Lower heat once boiling begins. Simmer the soup for about five minutes until all the flavors come together nicely.
5. Transfer half of your cooked vegetable mixture into a blender. Be careful; hot liquids can splatter when blending. Blend until smooth, then pour back into the pot.
6. Mix in cream or half-and-half along with dried basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Return the remaining ingredients from the baking sheet (if you have cooked any additional vegetables) to the soup. Stir well before serving hot. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Tips for Best Results:

• The quality of your tomatoes will directly affect how creamy and flavorful the final product is. If possible, use ripe tomatoes that have been slightly softened by a few hours at room temperature before chopping them up.
• For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or sherry to the soup during the simmering process.
• If you prefer a thicker consistency without having to add more cream, simply reduce the amount of liquid by letting it cook down for longer on the stove. Be cautious not to burn your soup at this stage!

Nutritional Information (Approximate Values Per Serving)

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

To make your presentation of creamy tomato basil soup even more appealing, consider the following suggestions:

• Serve it with a slice of garlic bread or a side salad.
• Add a drizzle of olive oil on top before serving to enhance its appearance and aroma.
• For an extra touch, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over each bowl for added richness and flavor.

This creamy tomato basil soup recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that are simple yet satisfying. Whether you're looking for something quick and easy to prepare during busy weekdays or want to impress guests with your cooking skills on special occasions, this dish will not disappoint. Enjoy creating and sharing this wonderful recipe with family members and friends!