Nordstrom Cafe's Tomato Basil Soup
A creamy and comforting Tomato Basil Soup inspired by Nordstrom Cafe, perfect for chilly afternoons and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor
- 1 medium onion, chopped Sweet onions, like Vidalia, elevate the sweetness
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh is always best for that aromatic touch
- 4 cups canned whole tomatoes San Marzano tomatoes are a top choice for their rich flavor
- 2 cups vegetable broth Homemade adds depth; store-bought for convenience
- 1 teaspoon sugar To balance acidity
- to taste salt and pepper Sea salt and freshly cracked pepper work wonders
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped Don’t skimp on freshness—your taste buds will thank you
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional) Stir in for an ultra-rich finish; can be substituted with coconut cream for a dairy-free option
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the onion from burning.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the canned tomatoes (with their juice), vegetable broth, and sugar to the pot. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer batches to a traditional blender.
- Stir in the fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If desired, stir in the heavy cream for an even richer texture.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with a sprig of basil if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy with crusty bread or croutons.
Notes
Storage: Cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months! This soup actually tastes better the next day.