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 quickly became a family favorite during hectic weeknights when I want something warm and wholesome without spending hours cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil:
- 1 medium yellow onion: diced
- 2 garlic cloves: minced
- 1 large carrot: peeled and diced
- 2 cans diced tomatoes: 14.5 oz/410 g each with juice
- 1 tbsp tomato paste:
- 2 cups vegetable broth: 480 ml
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: 120 ml plus extra for serving
- 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 fresh basil leaves: 25 g chopped plus extra for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil:
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Cook garlic:
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings:
- Add diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, vegetable broth, sugar, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer vegetables:
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are very soft.
- Stir in basil:
- Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil.
- Puree soup:
- Use an immersion blender (or transfer in batches to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
- Final heat and cream:
- Return soup to low heat, stir in heavy cream, and warm through without boiling.
- Adjust seasoning:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle into bowls, swirl with extra cream, and garnish with basil.
Pin It This soup always brings my family together around the table for a cozy meal especially on chilly evenings.
Notes
For added depth, sauté a pinch of smoked paprika with the onions before adding other ingredients.
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.
Pin It 
This creamy tomato basil soup is simple yet comforting, perfect to enjoy any night of the week.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What makes this tomato soup creamy?
The addition of heavy cream after blending the pureed vegetables adds a rich and velvety texture to the soup.
- → Can I substitute fresh basil with dried basil?
While fresh basil provides a vibrant flavor and aroma, dried basil can be used if necessary, though it won't be as bright or fresh-tasting.
- → Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or plant-based alternatives to maintain creaminess without dairy.
- → How do I achieve a smooth texture in this dish?
Using an immersion blender or transferring the soup to a countertop blender ensures a completely smooth and creamy consistency.
- → What sides pair well with this flavorful tomato and basil dish?
Crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches complement the creamy texture and enhance the meal's heartiness.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead and gently reheated, stirring in extra cream as needed to maintain its texture.