A timeless, comforting tomato and basil soup that captures the essence of summer and is perfect for any occasion.
Author:alexis
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Category:Soup
Method:Simmering
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.