Essence of Tomato Soup with Fresh Basil

A vibrant, deeply flavored tomato soup made from ripe heirloom tomatoes and fresh basil.

Cuisine: Italian

Category: Soups

Prep: 15 minutes. Cook: 25 minutes.

Serves 4.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds heirloom tomatoes
• 1/2 medium onion
• 1/2 medium carrot
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Dice tomatoes, onion, and carrot into small, even pieces. Mince garlic.
2. Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and carrot for 5 minutes until softened.
3. Step 3: Add tomatoes and garlic, cooking for 8 minutes until tomatoes break down and release juices.
4. Step 4: Stir in 1 cup vegetable broth, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes to meld flavors.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and blend with an immersion blender until completely smooth (or transfer to a countertop blender in batches).
6. Step 6: Return soup to low heat and stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil. Cook for 2 minutes until basil wilts but retains color.
7. Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot with extra basil for garnish.