Simple Italian Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Tasty and hearty, our Simple Italian Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting dish that brings the flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen. This soup is perfect for those chilly evenings when you just want something warm and delicious! Let's dive into how easy it can be to create this delightful recipe.

Ingredients needed:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation:

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Garlic can be added towards the end for better flavor retention.

3. Once the onions are soft and fragrant, add the diced tomatoes to the pot along with vegetable broth. Stir well so that all ingredients combine nicely together.

4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Allow it to simmer for around 15 minutes or until you see the soup thicken slightly.

5. While waiting for your soup to simmer, mix heavy cream with basil and season according to taste. Adding salt and pepper will enhance its flavor significantly.

6. After the specified time has passed, blend half of the hot soup until smooth using a hand blender or countertop blender. Pour this into the pot containing the remaining half of the soup, blending again thoroughly for homogeneity. The resulting texture should be thick yet creamy.

Cooking Time: 45 minutes (including cooling time)

Number of Servings: 6-8 people

Serving Suggestions:

• Celebrate this soup by pairing it with crusty Italian bread or garlic baguettes.
• To elevate the experience, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving for that extra freshness and color contrast.

Benefits of This Recipe:

This simple tomato basil soup recipe is not only delicious but also beneficial. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system and keeps you healthy during cold seasons. Basil contains antioxidants that promote heart health by reducing inflammation levels within the body. Heavy cream adds richness without compromising on taste; however, you could replace it with lower-fat alternatives if desired.

Conclusion:

The Simple Italian Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful culinary adventure at home. With minimal effort, you can enjoy this warming and nutritious dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your family's meal rotation. Whether you're looking for something easy or just want a quick yet satisfying option when time is limited, this recipe fits the bill perfectly!