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Tomato and Basil Soup

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A timeless, comforting tomato and basil soup that captures the essence of summer and is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion (diced)
  • 2 ribs celery (diced)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1½ cups fresh basil (diced or ¼ cup dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (diced or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 (28 oz) cans whole or diced tomatoes (or 3 to 4 lbs fresh tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and cut into chunks)
  • 1½ cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (balsamic vinegar also works well)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 1½ cups parmesan cheese (grated)
  • ½ cup whipping cream
  • 6 tablespoons parmesan cheese (grated, for garnish)
  • 3 teaspoons fresh basil (for garnish)
  • A sprinkle of garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Sauté the base ingredients: In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  2. Add herbs and tomato paste: Stir in the diced fresh basil, fresh oregano, and bay leaf. Add the tomato paste, mixing well, and cook for another 2 minutes.
  3. Introduce tomatoes and broth: Pour in the canned tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes) along with the vegetable broth, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally.
  4. Blend the soup: Once the soup has simmered, remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just half of it.
  5. Stir in cheese and cream: Return the pot to low heat. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and whipping cream until well combined. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with the reserved parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of garlic powder.

Notes

Choose ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. Fresh herbs make a significant difference in taste.