| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 155 | 9g | 4g | 18g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 9g | 3g | 3g | 1.1g |
From the sunny valleys of California where I was raised to the bustling hub of your kitchen, I am thrilled to share my recipe for Fresh Basil Tomato Soup, a dish that embodies vibrant flavors, easy preparation, and undeniable health benefits. This is not just any bowl of soup; it’s a rich, lively and comforting blend that takes the traditional love affair of basil and tomato to another level. So why do I adore this recipe and why should you too? Let’s delve in and figure out together.
A Health-Packed Delight
As someone who grows up valuing nutrition and health-consciousness, it’s no surprise that my Fresh Basil Tomato Soup is nothing less than a nutritional powerhouse. It contains fresh ingredients such as tomatoes and basil which are known for their high amounts of vitamins C and K respectively. Tomatoes are also rich in the antioxidant lycopene, associated with many health benefits including reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. Then there’s the flavorful and beneficial garlic and onion, providing excellent anti-inflammatory benefits. This is not to mention the indispensable addition of olive oil, a heart-healthy fat that completes the health-packed nature of our soup.
Complementary Pairings
Beyond its stand-alone deliciousness, this recipe shares a blissful companionship with a wide variety of dishes. Think of pairing our Fresh Basil Tomato Soup with a crusty sourdough bread, a light avocado toast, or with a classic grilled cheese for a delightfully all-American meal. Its fresh and light nature also makes it the perfect prelude to a heartier main, such as a pan-grilled steak or roast chicken. And when the occasion calls for it, why not enjoy it alongside a crisp white wine from the heart of Californian wine country?
Whatever the pairing, this tomato basil soup recipe will shine in its simplicity and flavor. It’s not just a recipe, it’s a lifestyle packed into a warming bowl of nutritious, delectable goodness. And wouldn’t you want to partake in such a journey of taste and health?
To enhance your soup experience even further, check out the health benefits of olive oil and the nutritional powerhouse that is garlic. You’d be surprised how much goodness there is in the simple, fresh ingredients we often take for granted.
What You’ll Need
- 5 cups of fresh tomatoes, diced
- 2 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream (optional)
- Additional basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Method
Step One
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onions become translucent, approximately about 5-7 minutes.
Step Two
Add the diced fresh tomatoes to the pot, along with the chopped fresh basil leaves, vegetable broth, sugar, salt and ground black pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
Step Three
Bring the pot to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step Four
After 30 minutes, remove the pot from the heat. Let it cool for a bit, then transfer the contents of the pot to a blender or food processor. Blend until your soup has a smooth consistency.
Step Five
Pour the blended soup back into the pot and return it to the heat. If you’re using the heavy cream, add it to the soup now and stir until it’s well incorporated. If you’re not using heavy cream, you can skip this step.
Step Six
Before serving, taste your soup and add any additional salt or black pepper to taste. To serve, ladle the soup into bowls. If you wish, garnish each bowl with a few fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your Fresh Basil Tomato Soup!
