Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup
Highlighted under: Nourishing Inspirations
I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup for its simplicity and wholesome ingredients. There's something comforting about letting the slow cooker do the work while the rich aroma fills the kitchen. I find that the combination of fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of garlic creates a soothing bowl of soup perfect for any occasion. Plus, this recipe is incredibly healthy, making it an easy choice for my family’s meal prep. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.
When I first discovered the joy of using a crockpot for soup, it completely changed my cooking game. This Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup became a staple in my home. The best part? I can throw everything in the pot in the morning and return to a delicious and healthy meal in the evening, with minimal effort on my part.
One of my best tips is to use fresh, ripe tomatoes when they're in season for the most flavorful results. I've also found that letting the soup blend overnight in the fridge makes the flavors even richer. It's a true testament to the power of slow cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Simple ingredients with a freshness that shines through
- Perfectly balanced flavors that warm the soul
- Versatile and customizable to suit any palate
Ingredient Insights
Fresh tomatoes are the star of this soup, providing a naturally sweet and tangy base. I suggest using a mix of ripe heirloom tomatoes and Roma tomatoes for depth of flavor. Heirloom tomatoes offer a lush sweetness, whereas Roma tomatoes bring a more concentrated form of acidity. Be sure to chop them into even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly, enhancing the overall texture of the finished soup.
Basil is another key component, bringing a fragrant aroma and bright flavor profile that elevates the soup. For the best results, use freshly chopped basil, as dried varieties can lose potency over time. If you’re looking for a twist, try swapping in other herbs like thyme or oregano, but remember that these will create a different flavor experience.
Technique Tips
When layering the ingredients in the crockpot, ensure that you properly season with salt and pepper. This step enhances the flavors as the soup cooks slowly, allowing them to meld together beautifully. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also be added at this stage for those who enjoy a touch of heat. The goal is to create a robust base that only gets richer as it simmers.
Using an immersion blender to puree the soup is a fantastic option, as it allows for easy control over the texture. If you prefer a chunky soup, pulse just a few times. Alternatively, if a silky-smooth consistency is desired, blend thoroughly until the soup reaches your preference. Keep an eye on the timing; over-blending can lead to a gluey texture, so short bursts are recommended.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Prep the Ingredients
Chop the tomatoes, dice the onion, and mince the garlic. Make sure to wash the basil and set it aside for later.
Layer in the Crockpot
Add the chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, oregano, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Drizzle the olive oil over the top.
Cook the Soup
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
Blend and Stir
Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. Stir in the fresh basil just before serving.
Pro Tips
- For a creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream just before serving. Also, feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste.
Storage and Reheating
This Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup stores wonderfully, making it ideal for meal prep. After the soup has cooled completely, transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze it in single-serving portions. Just be sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
When reheating, simply warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it's too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore its creamy texture. For frozen soup, I recommend thawing it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
For an elevated serving experience, consider garnishing each bowl with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A dollop of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also add an interesting twist. Pair with crusty bread or a slice of grilled cheese for a comforting meal.
This soup is also highly versatile; you can serve it as a starter or a main dish. For a heartier option, add protein such as cooked lentils or shredded chicken. If you want a more substantial option, serve it over cooked quinoa or with a side of pasta, creating a delightful texture contrast.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes can be used as a substitute. Just be sure to use low-sodium versions for a healthier option.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already vegan! Just ensure that the vegetable broth you use is vegan-friendly.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
→ What can I pair this soup with?
This soup goes wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a hearty meal.
Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup
I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup for its simplicity and wholesome ingredients. There's something comforting about letting the slow cooker do the work while the rich aroma fills the kitchen. I find that the combination of fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of garlic creates a soothing bowl of soup perfect for any occasion. Plus, this recipe is incredibly healthy, making it an easy choice for my family’s meal prep. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Created by: Arabella Scott
Recipe Type: Nourishing Inspirations
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
Chop the tomatoes, dice the onion, and mince the garlic. Make sure to wash the basil and set it aside for later.
Add the chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, oregano, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Drizzle the olive oil over the top.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. Stir in the fresh basil just before serving.
Extra Tips
- For a creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream just before serving. Also, feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g