Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 2 14.5 ounce cans diced tomatoes
- 2 carrots
- 1 small onion
- 3 ribs celery
- 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil leaves
- ½ cup butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups half and half
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Directions
- 1
Add oil to a large soup pot over medium high heat. Once hot, add carrots, onions, and celery and sauté them for a few minutes.
- 2
Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, oregano, and dried basil. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for several minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- 3
Use an immersion blender or regular blender (you may need to do this in batches, depending on how big your blender is) to puree the soup until smooth. (This step is optional, if you like a smooth soup). Return it to the soup pot.
- 4
In a separate pot, prepare the roux. Add butter to the pot over medium low heat and allow to melt. Stir in the flour and whisk together constantly for about 10 minutes or until the roux is a nice golden brown color.
- 5
Add a big ladle full of the soup to the roux--it will start to form a thick paste.Add a few more big scoops of soup to the roux and stir well until smooth. Add the roux mixture to soup pot and stir to combine.
- 6
Stir in the parmesan cheese, half and half, salt, pepper and basil. Add additional oregano and basil if needed, to taste. Stir well. Cook for a few more minutes until warmed through.
- 7
Store tomato basil soup covered in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- 8
Try it served in a yummy homemade bread bowl!
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
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About this Recipe
Few comfort foods rival a bowl of rich, velvety tomato soup, and this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup delivers exactly that cozy warmth with bright, herbaceous notes. It’s the kind of dish that makes any meal feel special, even on a busy weeknight.
Why You'll Love This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
What makes this soup truly special is the thoughtful combination of a classic roux for a luxurious, silky body, paired with the vibrant acidity of diced tomatoes and the aromatic lift of both dried and fresh basil. The addition of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and creamy half and half transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience. This isn't just a simple soup; it's a deeply satisfying and expertly balanced creation that feels both homemade and restaurant-quality.
You can expect a wonderfully smooth soup, rich with the savory depth of Parmesan cheese and a delicate tang from the tomatoes, all balanced by the aromatic warmth of oregano and basil. It’s hearty enough to be a comforting main dish yet refined enough for any occasion, offering a warming embrace in every spoonful. The subtle sweetness of the carrots and onion mellows the acidity, creating a well-rounded flavor profile that’s incredibly satisfying. The fresh basil, stirred in at the end, provides a bright, fragrant finish that awakens the palate and adds a beautiful pop of color.
Customization for Your Kitchen
While this recipe is perfect as written, you can easily adjust it to your taste and pantry. For a vegetarian option, simply swap the low-sodium chicken broth for a good quality vegetable broth. If you enjoy a touch of warmth, a small pinch of red pepper flakes would be a welcome addition to the pot. Want an even smoother soup? Consider using canned crushed tomatoes instead of diced, or blend a portion of the soup before adding the half and half and cheese.
Serve this comforting Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate pairing, or simply enjoy it on its own with a crusty piece of bread. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a welcoming starter for a dinner party.