Creamy Tomato Basil Soup:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a dairy-free option)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
- Croutons or crusty bread (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
- Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
3. Season and Simmer:
- Add dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well.
- Allow the soup to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
4. Blend the Soup:
- Use an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
5. Add Cream and Fresh Basil:
- Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk, depending on your preference. This step adds richness and creaminess to the soup.
- Add the chopped fresh basil and stir. Reserve some basil for garnish if desired.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to your taste.
7. Serve:
- Ladle the creamy tomato basil soup into bowls. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil.
- Serve the soup with croutons or crusty bread on the side for dipping and enjoying with the soup.
8. Enjoy Comfort in a Bowl: This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup offers a comforting blend of rich tomato flavor, aromatic herbs, and creamy texture. Whether enjoyed as a cozy lunch or a warming dinner, it's a classic soup that never fails to satisfy and bring warmth to your taste buds.
