ingredients and preparation
This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare using simple ingredients. Before you begin, gather everything you’ll need to ensure a smooth cooking process. Here’s the list of ingredients and preparation steps to get started:
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) of whole peeled tomatoes: Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, blanch and peel them before use.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the soup.
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced: Fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 4 cups of vegetable broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the soup.
- 1 cup of heavy cream: This gives the soup its creamy texture. For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk.
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped: Fresh basil is essential for its aromatic and slightly peppery flavor. Reserve a few leaves for garnish if desired.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions and garlic.
- 1 teaspoon of sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust seasoning as needed to suit your preference.
Preparation:
- Start by preparing your vegetables. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. If using fresh tomatoes, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to easily remove the skins.
- Chop the fresh basil leaves finely, reserving a few whole leaves for garnish if desired.
- Measure out all other ingredients to ensure everything is ready to go when you start cooking.
With your ingredients prepped and ready, you’re all set to move on to the next steps of creating this delicious soup in your crock pot.
step-by-step crock pot instructions
Now that your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to bring everything together in the crock pot for a rich, creamy tomato basil soup. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure a perfectly cooked and flavorful dish:
- Step 1: Sauté the aromatics. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn. This step enhances the flavor of the soup by releasing the natural sweetness of the onions and garlic.
- Step 2: Combine ingredients in the crock pot. Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the crock pot. Add the canned whole peeled tomatoes (including their juices), vegetable broth, sugar, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
- Step 3: Cook on low heat. Set your crock pot to the low setting and let the soup cook for 6-8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours, but the low-and-slow method allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Step 4: Blend the soup. Once the cooking time is complete, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the crock pot until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splatters.
- Step 5: Add the cream and basil. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped fresh basil. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Let the soup cook on low for another 10-15 minutes to warm through and allow the basil to infuse its flavor.
At this point, your creamy tomato basil soup is ready to serve. The crock pot has done all the hard work, leaving you with a velvety, aromatic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. In the next section, we’ll explore serving suggestions and tips for storing leftovers to make the most of this comforting recipe.
serving suggestions and storage tips
This creamy tomato basil soup is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways to suit your preferences and the occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, a comforting dinner, or an elegant starter, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
- Classic pairing with crusty bread: Serve the soup with a side of warm, crusty bread or a baguette for dipping. Garlic bread or a slice of toasted sourdough brushed with olive oil also makes an excellent accompaniment.
- Grilled cheese sandwich: Pair the soup with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic and satisfying combination. Use sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of your favorite cheeses for the ultimate comfort food experience.
- Garnish for added flavor: Top each bowl with a drizzle of olive oil, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Freshly cracked black pepper and a few whole basil leaves make for a beautiful and aromatic garnish.
- Serve in bread bowls: For a rustic presentation, hollow out small round loaves of bread and ladle the soup directly into the bread bowls. This not only looks impressive but also adds a delicious edible element to the meal.
- Light side salad: Pair the soup with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil is another complementary option.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. Label and date the containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating tips: When reheating frozen soup, warm it slowly over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating. If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
With these serving ideas and storage tips, you can enjoy this creamy tomato basil soup fresh or as a convenient make-ahead meal. Its rich flavors and velvety texture make it a dish you’ll want to savor again and again.