Pin it A velvety, comforting tomato soup with fresh basil and a swirl of cream—perfect for busy weeknights yet full of flavor.
This soup has become my go-to comfort food on chilly weeknights when I crave something warm yet simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion diced, 2 garlic cloves minced, 1 large carrot peeled and diced, 2 cans (14.5 oz/410 g each) diced tomatoes with juice, 1 tbsp tomato paste
- Liquids & Dairy: 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable broth, 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream plus extra for serving
- Herbs & Seasonings: 1 tsp sugar, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, 1 cup (25 g) fresh basil leaves chopped plus extra for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Step 2:
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, vegetable broth, sugar, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
- Step 4:
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are very soft.
- Step 5:
- Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil.
- Step 6:
- Use an immersion blender (or transfer in batches to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
- Step 7:
- Return soup to low heat, stir in heavy cream, and warm through without boiling.
- Step 8:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 9:
- Ladle into bowls, swirl with extra cream, and garnish with basil.
Pin it My family loves gathering around this soup on weeknights; it’s a comforting tradition that brings us together.
Required Tools
Large saucepan, immersion blender or countertop blender, ladle, chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (heavy cream). Free from nuts, eggs, and gluten (if using gluten-free broth). Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210, Total Fat: 11 g, Carbohydrates: 23 g, Protein: 4 g per serving
Pin it
This soup is quick, nourishing, and perfect for sharing any night of the week.
Recipe Q&A
- → How can I make this soup vegan?
Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or other plant-based cream alternatives to keep it rich and smooth without dairy.
- → What is the best way to puree the soup?
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender until smooth and creamy.
- → Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor of this soup?
Fresh basil is the primary herb, but adding dried oregano and optional red pepper flakes can deepen the aroma and add subtle heat.
- → What sides complement this soup well?
Serve with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a satisfying and hearty meal experience.