Craving that delicious, creamy tomato basil soup you get at Jason's Deli? This recipe lets you recreate that comforting bowl of goodness right in your own kitchen! It's easier than you think, and far more satisfying knowing you made it from scratch with fresh, flavorful ingredients. This is one of those healthy meals that’s perfect for a quick dinner, a light lunch, or even a satisfying weekend brunch. Get ready to impress yourself – and your taste buds!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a vegan option)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves and a swirl of cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
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Simmer the Tomatoes: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes.
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Blend for Smoothness: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. Work in batches if using a regular blender, allowing steam to escape before blending.
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Stir in Cream and Basil: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and fresh basil. Heat through gently – do not boil.
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Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra swirl of cream, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade tomato basil soup!
Tips for the Best Tomato Basil Soup:
- Roast your tomatoes: For an even deeper, richer flavor, roast your tomatoes before adding them to the soup. Simply toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes.
- Adjust the creaminess: Want a thicker soup? Stir in a tablespoon or two of tomato paste along with the crushed tomatoes. For a lighter soup, reduce the amount of cream.
- Don't overcook the basil: Add the fresh basil towards the end of the cooking process to preserve its vibrant green color and fresh flavor.
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices. A pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes, while a dash of Worcestershire sauce adds a savory depth.
Variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Use vegetable broth and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Cheesy: Stir in some shredded Parmesan cheese or a dollop of crème fraîche before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the ingredients used, but a typical serving will contain roughly:
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 6-8g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy recipe allows you to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. So ditch the takeout and try this homemade version – you won’t regret it!