If you’re a fan of warm, comforting soups, then Applebee’s Tomato Basil Soup Recipe is likely on your list of favorites. This rich and creamy soup, bursting with the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, is a perfect starter or a light meal on its own. Today, we’ll dive into how you can recreate this beloved soup in your own kitchen. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive in!
Why We Love Applebee’s Tomato Basil Soup
Applebee’s Tomato Basil Soup has a special place in many hearts and stomachs. It’s not just about the flavors; it’s about the comfort and warmth that comes with every spoonful. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and the creamy texture makes it a standout. Plus, it’s easy to pair with a variety of sides like grilled cheese sandwiches, making it a versatile option for any meal.
Ingredients for Applebee’s Tomato Basil Soup
To capture the essence of Applebee’s Tomato Basil Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large carrot, peeled and diced
- 2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh basil leaves
- Croutons
- Shredded Parmesan cheese
Preparing the Soup
Creating this delightful soup at home is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to make a delicious pot of Applebee’s Tomato Basil Soup.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced carrot, and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Next, add the canned tomatoes with their juices. Using a wooden spoon, break the tomatoes into smaller pieces. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
After the soup has simmered, remove it from the heat. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender and blend in batches.
Step 4: Add Cream and Basil
Return the pureed soup to the pot and place it back on the stove over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream, chopped basil, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, croutons, and a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Tips for the Perfect Tomato Basil Soup
While the recipe is straightforward, here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfect every time.
Use High-Quality Tomatoes
The quality of your tomatoes can make or break this soup. Opt for San Marzano tomatoes if possible; they are sweeter and less acidic, providing a better flavor profile.
Fresh Basil Is a Must
Fresh basil is key to achieving the vibrant, aromatic quality of this soup. Dried basil won’t have the same effect, so be sure to use fresh leaves.
Adjust the Creaminess
If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of vegetable broth or add a bit more cream. Conversely, if you like a lighter soup, use less cream.
Seasoning Is Crucial
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly. The right balance of salt and pepper is essential for bringing out the flavors.
Pairing Suggestions
Applebee’s Tomato Basil Soup is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some suggestions to complete your meal.
Classic Grilled Cheese
There’s nothing quite like dipping a crispy, gooey grilled cheese sandwich into a bowl of tomato basil soup. The combination is a timeless comfort food pairing.
Caesar Salad
For a lighter option, serve the soup with a Caesar salad. The crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons complement the creamy soup beautifully.
Garlic Bread
A side of warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious soup. The garlic and buttery flavor enhance the tomato basil combination.
Roasted Vegetables
For a nutritious addition, consider serving the soup with a side of roasted vegetables. Carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini are great choices that add a nice texture contrast.
Nutritional Information
Being mindful of what you’re eating is important. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information for a serving of Applebee’s Tomato Basil Soup.
- Calories: 250 per serving
- Protein: 4 grams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Sugar: 10 grams
- Sodium: 800 mg
These values can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used.
Variations to
Explore
While the classic recipe is fantastic, you can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some variations you might enjoy:
Vegan Tomato Basil Soup
To make a vegan version of this soup, simply replace the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Use vegetable broth as your base, and you’re good to go!
Spicy Tomato Basil Soup
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions and carrots. This will give your soup a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the soup can enhance their natural sweetness and add a deeper, richer flavor. Simply halve the tomatoes, place them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast at 400°F for about 30 minutes.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Parmesan
For an extra creamy and cheesy soup, stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese along with the heavy cream. The cheese will melt into the soup, adding a delicious depth of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a simple recipe, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here’s how to avoid them:
Overcooking the Vegetables
Sauté the onions, carrots, and garlic just until they’re soft and fragrant. Overcooking can lead to a bitter taste, which you want to avoid.
Not Blending Properly
If you’re using a regular blender, make sure to blend the soup in batches to avoid overflow and ensure a smooth consistency. An immersion blender makes this step easier and less messy.
Skipping the Seasoning
Tomatoes need a good amount of seasoning to bring out their natural flavors. Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper, and taste as you go to get the balance just right.
Adding Cream Too Early
If you add the cream before blending, it can lead to a curdled texture. Always add the cream after blending and simmer gently to incorporate.
Storing and Reheating
Made too much soup? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat it for later.
Refrigeration
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat until warmed through.
Freezing
Tomato basil soup freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Bringing It All Together
Applebee’s Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful dish that’s easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the suggested variations, you’re sure to end up with a bowl of comfort that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!
FAQs About Applebee’s Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Simply blanch and peel them before adding to the soup. Using fresh tomatoes can provide a fresher taste but might require longer cooking to break them down.
Is It Possible to Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together, making it even more delicious when reheated.
How Can I Thicken My Soup if It’s Too Thin?
If your soup is thinner than you’d like, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, you can stir in a small amount of tomato paste or a roux made from flour and butter.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat This Soup?
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid using high heat to prevent the cream from curdling.
Can I Add Protein to This Soup?
Yes, you can add protein like cooked chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Simply stir in the cooked protein towards the end of the cooking process to heat through.
For more ideas, recipes, and cooking tips and tricks, please visit us at Troy Energy Fc.