Tomato Basil Soup with Croutons
A creamy and flavorful tomato basil soup topped with crispy homemade croutons, perfect for a comforting meal.
- Author: sarra
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 4 slices of bread, cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter (for croutons)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for croutons)
- Salt to taste (for croutons)
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Remove from heat, add chopped basil, and blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches using a regular blender.
- Stir in heavy cream and return to low heat for 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Meanwhile, prepare croutons: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add bread cubes, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Cook until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Serve the soup hot, topped with croutons and a sprinkle of fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- For a vegan version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and olive oil for croutons.
- You can use canned diced tomatoes instead of crushed for a chunkier texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: tomato basil soup, vegetarian soup, homemade croutons, creamy tomato soup