Creamy Tomato Soup

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup. As the weather turns cooler, I often find myself craving this classic dish, which reminds me of childhood lunches and cozy dinners. The first time I made this recipe for my family, it was met with delight. The rich, velvety texture combined with the tangy sweetness of the tomatoes made for a truly satisfying experience. Paired with crusty bread, it became a favorite in our household. Now, I can’t wait to share this comforting recipe with you!

Ingredients

To make this delicious creamy tomato soup, you will need:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (28-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Heat the Olive Oil

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.

Sauté the Onion

Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. The aroma of sautéing onions fills the kitchen and sets the stage for the rest of the soup.

Add the Garlic

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.

Stir in Tomatoes and Broth

Add the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Blend the Soup

After simmering, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree until silky.

Stir in Cream and Cheese

Once the soup is blended, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.

Serve Warm

Ladle the creamy tomato soup into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread or crackers. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 6
• Calories per serving: About 320

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

Here are some tasty ways to enjoy your creamy tomato soup:

• With Crusty Bread: A classic pairing, perfect for dipping.
• With Grilled Cheese: A comforting duo that never goes out of style.
• Garnished with Basil: Fresh basil on top adds a beautiful touch and enhances flavor.
• With a Splash of Balsamic Glaze: For a tangy twist, drizzle balsamic glaze on top before serving.
• With Croutons: Add texture and crunch with homemade or store-bought croutons.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Tomatoes: If you have ripe tomatoes, feel free to use them instead of canned for a fresher taste.
2. Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half.
3. Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
4. Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for varied flavors.
5. Make it Vegan: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Recipe Variations

• Roasted Tomato Soup: Roast the tomatoes before blending for a deeper flavor.
• Spicy Tomato Soup: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick.
• Herbed Tomato Soup: Include dried herbs like Italian seasoning or herbes de Provence.
• Chunky Tomato Soup: Leave some diced tomatoes unblended for added texture.
• Cheesy Tomato Soup: Add extra cheese, such as mozzarella, for a gooey finish.

Serving Suggestions

• As an Appetizer: Serve small bowls as a starter at dinner parties.
• In a Bread Bowl: Hollow out a small loaf of bread and serve the soup inside for a fun presentation.
• With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light meal.
• For Lunch: Pack in a thermos for a hearty lunch at work or school.
• At a Picnic: Bring along with some crusty bread for an easy outdoor meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
   • Yes, use about 3-4 pounds of fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped.
2. Is there a dairy-free alternative?
   • Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   • Absolutely! The flavors deepen if made a day in advance.
4. What can I serve with this soup?
   • Grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a side salad are great options.
5. Can I add vegetables to the soup?
   • Yes, feel free to add chopped carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
6. How do I store leftovers?
   • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
7. Can I use low-sodium broth?
   • Yes, using low-sodium broth is a great way to control salt levels.
8. How can I thicken the soup?
   • If you prefer a thicker soup, add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water, or reduce the broth.
9. What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
   • Nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free alternative for a cheesy flavor.
10. Is this soup suitable for freezing?
    • Yes, the soup freezes well, but it’s best to add the cream after thawing.

Conclusion

Creamy tomato soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings back fond memories and comforts the soul. This recipe is simple to make, yet delivers rich flavors that everyone will love. Whether enjoyed on a chilly day or served as a starter at a gathering, it’s a versatile dish that never disappoints. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this creamy tomato soup as much as my family does!

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