There’s something magical about a bowl of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup—it’s like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Whether you’re juggling work, family, or just need a moment of comfort, this soup is your ticket to a satisfying, easy dinner.
This healthy soup recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. Packed with wholesome ingredients like diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream, it’s the kind of comfort food that nourishes both body and soul.
So, grab your favorite pot and let’s create a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
-
Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
-
Healthy and Wholesome: Loaded with vegetables and herbs.
-
Comfort in a Bowl: Creamy texture and rich flavors make it the ultimate comfort food.
-
Versatile: Great as a starter or a main course.
Ingredients
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes with juice
-
2 carrots, finely diced
-
1 small onion, finely diced
-
3 ribs of celery, finely diced
-
2 tablespoons tomato paste
-
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
-
1 teaspoon dried oregano
-
1½ teaspoons dried basil leaves
-
½ cup butter
-
½ cup all-purpose flour
-
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
-
1½ cups half and half or whole milk
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
-
¼ cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions
-
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced carrots, onion, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
-
Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Stir in diced tomatoes with juice, tomato paste, chicken broth, dried oregano, and dried basil. Bring to a gentle boil and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
-
Blend the Soup: Use an immersion or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth. Blend in batches if needed, then return to the pot.
-
Prepare the Roux: In a separate saucepan over medium-low heat, melt butter and whisk in flour. Cook while stirring continuously for about 10 minutes until the roux turns golden brown.
-
Combine Roux and Soup: Add a ladle of soup into the roux to form a paste, then slowly incorporate a few more ladles, whisking until smooth. Pour roux mixture back into main soup pot and stir well.
-
Add Final Ingredients: Mix in parmesan cheese, half and half or milk, salt, pepper, and fresh basil. Simmer gently until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot. Store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Cooking Tips
-
Blending Safety: If using a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splatters.
-
Creaminess Control: For a lighter version, use whole milk instead of half and half.
-
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
-
Texture Variation: Leave some chunks of vegetables for a heartier texture.
A Personal Touch
This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup has become a family favorite in my household. On rainy days, it’s our go-to meal, bringing warmth and comfort. The aroma of simmering tomatoes and basil fills the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that brings everyone together.
What to Serve with Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
-
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that never fails.
-
Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the soup.
-
Salad: A fresh green salad complements the richness of the soup.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted veggies for a hearty meal.
How to Store
-
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
-
Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
-
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used. Blanch, peel, and chop them before adding to the soup.
Is there a vegetarian version?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter with olive oil and use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives.
Embrace the comfort of this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup and make it a staple in your recipe collection. It’s a delightful blend of flavors that promises to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
Print
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A Cozy Hug in a Bowl
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Roasted Carrot Soup is a warm and comforting dish made from tender roasted carrots, onions, garlic, and spices blended into a silky, flavorful soup. It’s a simple, healthy, and satisfying meal perfect for chilly nights or meal prep.
Ingredients
-
2 pounds carrots, peeled and sliced diagonally into ½-inch pieces
-
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
-
¾ teaspoon fine sea salt, divided
-
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
-
2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
-
½ teaspoon ground coriander
-
¼ teaspoon ground cumin
-
4 cups vegetable broth
-
2 cups water
-
1 to 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
-
1½ teaspoons lemon juice, to taste
-
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
Roast the Carrots: Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Toss sliced carrots with 2 tbsp olive oil and ½ tsp salt. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 25–40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
-
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and ¼ tsp salt. Cook 5–7 minutes until translucent. Add garlic, coriander, and cumin; stir constantly for 1 minute.
-
Simmer the Soup: Pour in vegetable broth and water. Add roasted carrots. Scrape up any browned bits and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
-
Blend Until Smooth: Let soup cool slightly. Blend in batches or use an immersion blender. Add butter, lemon juice, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning with more salt, lemon, or butter as desired.
-
Serve: Ladle into bowls. Garnish as desired and enjoy warm.
Notes
Roasting Adds Depth: Roasting enhances the carrots’ natural sweetness and is essential to the flavor.
Adjust Texture: Add extra broth or water if the soup is too thick after blending.
Add Extra Flavor: A dash of smoked paprika or fresh thyme can deepen the flavor.
Make It Vegan: Use plant-based butter or omit entirely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting, Blending, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American