As the crisp air of the season makes its entrance, there’s no better way to embrace the warmth of comfort food than with a bowl of Cheesy Tomato Basil Soup paired with crunchy Garlic Toast. This dish combines the bright, tangy flavors of fresh tomatoes with the aromatic essence of basil and the indulgent creaminess that makes each spoonful pure bliss. Paired with golden, cheesy garlic toast, this meal will satisfy both your taste buds and your soul. Here’s everything you need to bring this cozy classic to life.
The Secret to the Perfect Tomato Basil Soup
Tomato soup is a beloved classic, but this version adds a decadent twist. Using fresh tomatoes as the base gives the soup a garden-fresh flavor that canned varieties simply can’t match. The addition of heavy cream makes it velvety smooth, while fresh basil leaves add an earthy brightness that rounds out the dish.
Ingredients for Tomato Basil Soup:
- 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Creating the Cheesy Garlic Toast
What’s a rich, hearty bowl of soup without the perfect companion? The cheesy garlic toast adds the ideal crunch and savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with each bite of soup. Topped with melted mozzarella, these slices are a crowd-pleaser on their own but reach new heights when dipped in the luscious tomato soup.
Ingredients for Garlic Toast:
- 4 slices of bread
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Base Ingredients
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Simmer the Tomatoes
Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot, season with salt and black pepper, and stir occasionally. Let the mixture cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices.
Step 3: Blend and Enhance
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a gentle simmer for another 10 minutes. Then, use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender in batches to purée until smooth. Return the soup to the pot, stir in the heavy cream and fresh basil, and let it simmer for 5 more minutes on low heat.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesy Garlic Toast
While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to broil. In a small bowl, mix the butter and garlic powder. Spread this mixture evenly over each slice of bread. Top the slices with shredded mozzarella cheese and arrange them on a baking sheet. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden and crisp.
Serve and Savor
Ladle the warm tomato basil soup into bowls and serve alongside the cheesy garlic toast. Each dip of the toast into the rich, creamy soup is a moment to savor, combining the contrasting textures of smooth soup and crunchy bread.
Whether you’re sharing this meal with loved ones or enjoying a cozy night in, this Cheesy Tomato Basil Soup with Garlic Toast is sure to become a household favorite. It’s simple, flavorful, and an invitation to wrap yourself in culinary comfort.
Print
Cheesy Tomato Basil Soup with Garlic Toast
Description
Escape into a bowl of rich and creamy tomato basil soup, perfectly paired with golden, crunchy garlic toast. This dish is quick to prepare and sure to warm your soul.
Ingredients
– 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 slices of bread
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
2. Add chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally, cooking for about 15 minutes until tomatoes break down.
3. Stir in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for another 10 minutes.
4. Using a blender or immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream and fresh basil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 5 minutes.
6. While the soup simmers, prepare the garlic toast. Preheat the oven to broil.
7. In a small bowl, mix butter and garlic powder. Spread evenly on each slice of bread.
8. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and place on a baking sheet.
9. Broil until cheese is melted and bread is golden, about 2-3 minutes.
10. Serve the soup hot with garlic toast on the side.