Creamy Stovetop Tomato Basil Soup
Generated with the assistance of Pantry Bliss AI
Last updated on
4
25 minutes
Prep time
5 minutes
Cook time
20 minutes
The story of Creamy Stovetop Tomato Basil Soup is rooted in the enduring love for comfort food that transcends regions and generations. Reminiscent of sun-drenched Italian summers, this soup draws inspiration from rustic tomato sauces popularized in family kitchens and trattorias across Italy. Many chefs, such as Marcella Hazan, have celebrated the humble tomato by demonstrating its capability to transform simple dishes into culinary works of art, encouraging home cooks to embrace the fresh, vibrant essence of seasonal produce. By harmonizing fresh basil, garlic, and the richness of cream, this recipe takes cues from both Italian traditions and the American fondness for creamy soups, merging flavors that are both familiar and timeless.
At the heart of this soup lies the luscious combination of sweet, ripe tomatoes and fragrant fresh basil. The flavors are enriched by the addition of aromatic onion and garlic, which create a deep, savory base. Each spoonful embraces the comforting essence of rich cream that melds seamlessly into the vibrant tomato puree, creating a deliciously velvety texture. The sweetness of the tomatoes pops against the herby background of basil, while a touch of pepper adds just the right hint of warmth. It’s this delicate balance of fresh herbs and smooth creaminess that elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary, making it a perfect reflection of both simplicity and sophistication.
The gentle cooking techniques used in this recipe contribute significantly to its unique flavor profile. Sautéing the onions and garlic in extra virgin olive oil first softens their sharpness and enhances their sweetness, laying the foundation for a deeply flavored base. Bringing the mixture to a simmer allows the tomatoes to meld with the broth, infusing the soup with layers of flavor while softening the textural edges of the ingredients. The crowning touch is achieved by blending the soup until perfectly smooth, ensuring that every bite is rich and satisfying. This careful attention to detail and technique honors the ingredients, following a philosophy of extracting the best from each one.
When it comes to presentation, this soup is as inviting as it is delicious. Ladled into rustic bowls, the vibrant red of the soup is striking, especially when crowned with golden grilled cheese croutons nestled on top. The grilled cheese, with its gooey cheddar melting beautifully, offers a delightful contrast to the smooth soup, drawing attention with its inviting contrast of textures. A sprinkling of fresh basil leaves for garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but also imbues the dish with a fresh aromatic quality, captivating the senses even before the first sip.
To truly enjoy Creamy Stovetop Tomato Basil Soup, consider serving it as a warm hug on a cool evening. Pair it with a side of rustic bread or a fresh garden salad, complementing the dish’s depth with something bright and crisp. A light, refreshing white wine or even a sparkling water with a splash of lemon can enhance the dining experience, inviting a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the soup. This dish transforms an ordinary meal into an engaging full-course experience, catering not only to hunger but to comfort, nostalgia, and warmth.
This recipe and its accompanying image were generated by Pantry Bliss AI. Please use your discretion, verify ingredients for allergies and safe consumption, and follow safe cooking practices.
Ingredients
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30 milliliters olive oil (extra virgin for flavor)
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1 large onion (finely chopped)
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3 cloves garlic (minced)
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800 grams canned diced tomatoes (with juices)
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500 milliliters vegetable broth
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120 milliliters heavy cream (for richness)
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30 grams fresh basil leaves (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
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to taste salt
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to taste black pepper
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4 slices bread (preferably sourdough or whole grain)
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100 grams cheddar cheese (sliced or shredded)
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30 milliliters butter (softened, for spreading)
Instructions
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1.
Sauté onion and garlic:
Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Do not let it burn.
Garlic can burn quickly; stir frequently and lower the heat if necessary.
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2.
Add tomatoes and broth:
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with juices) and vegetable broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Ensure the mixture doesn’t boil over; simmer gently.
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3.
Blend and add cream:
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth (or transfer carefully to a blender). Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
If blending in a blender, allow soup to cool slightly and blend in batches if necessary to avoid splatter.
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4.
Prepare grilled cheese croutons:
While the soup is simmering, heat a skillet over medium heat. Spread butter on one side of each bread slice. Place two slices, butter side down, in the skillet. Top with cheese and the remaining bread slices, butter side up. Grill until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side, flipping once.
Ensure the heat isn’t too high to avoid burning the bread; use moderate heat for even cooking.
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5.
Serve and garnish:
Ladle the creamy tomato soup into individual bowls. Cut the grilled cheese sandwiches into crouton-sized pieces and place them on top of the soup. Garnish with extra basil leaves if desired.
Ensure the soup is served hot and the croutons are still crisp when served.
Tips and Variations
- For a vegetarian option, ensure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Try substituting heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative that adds a hint of tropical flavor.
- Incorporate vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and sweetness; sauté them with the onions.
- If fresh basil isn't available, use dried basil or a herbed oil as a substitute, adjusting the amount to taste.
- Make the soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days; it reheats well and flavors deepen.
- For a smoky flavor, add a little smoked paprika when you add the tomatoes.
- Serve with a side salad or crusty bread to make it a heartier meal.
- For a gourmet twist, drizzle with balsamic reduction before serving.
- Consider using a mix of cheeses for the grilled cheese croutons, such as mozzarella and fontina, for different flavors and textures.
Equipment Required
Suggested Pairings
Sides
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Garlic bread complements the creamy tomato soup with its buttery, garlicky flavor, enhancing the overall Italian experience.
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A fresh garden salad offers a crisp and refreshing contrast to the creamy soup, balancing richness with acidity.
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Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in seasonal veggies, which pairs beautifully with the rich tomato soup.
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These add a fun, cheesy component that echoes the grilled cheese croutons while also adding texture.
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The earthy flavor of stuffed mushrooms complements the sweetness of tomatoes nicely, providing a delightful bite.
Drinks
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A refreshing non-alcoholic option, lemonade's brightness balances the richness of the soup, making it a great pairing.
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This crisp white wine offers acidity that cuts through the creaminess of the soup and enhances its flavors.
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A light, fizzy beverage that cleanses the palate between bites, complementing the creamy texture of the soup.
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The hoppy bitterness of an IPA can provide an interesting contrast to the soup, enhancing its overall depth.
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Unsweetened iced tea's subtle bitterness and refreshing qualities make it a perfect non-alcoholic option to enjoy with the meal.
Other Food Dishes
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This classic Italian salad with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil echoes the flavors of the soup and adds a light, refreshing touch.
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For dessert, chocolate chip cookies offer a nostalgic sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory soup.
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A light pasta dish with seasonal vegetables can serve as a satisfying, complementary entrée that enhances the Italian theme.
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A creamy risotto can be a luxurious addition, maintaining the rich and comforting theme of the meal.
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A fresh fruit tart adds visual appeal and a refreshing burst of sweetness to end the meal on a light note.