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Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Creamy tomato basil soup with fresh herbs in a rustic bowl

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A deeply satisfying yet light soup that relies on the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables for a luxurious, creamy texture without heaviness. This nostalgic, from-scratch comfort food is simple to make and perfect for any day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes (San Marzano preferred)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed, plus more for garnish
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for one more minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth. Use a wooden spoon to gently break up the whole tomatoes.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it bubble gently, uncovered, for 25 minutes.
  5. Carefully transfer the hot soup in batches to a blender, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until completely smooth and velvety.
  6. Return the smooth soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and the fresh basil leaves.
  7. Taste and season generously with salt and pepper. Add the optional sugar if needed to balance acidity.
  8. Heat gently until warmed through, but do not boil once the cream is added. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream. Never fill a countertop blender more than halfway with hot liquid; always vent the lid. The soup freezes well for up to 3 months.

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