Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Directions

1. 1

   Sauté the Vegetables

   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

2. 2

   Add Carrots and Celery

   Stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly.

3. 3

   Incorporate Tomatoes

   Pour in the canned whole tomatoes with their juice, breaking them up with a spoon. Stir to combine with the other vegetables.

4. 4

   Add Broth and Seasonings

   Add the vegetable broth, chopped fresh basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil.

5. 5

   Simmer the Soup

   Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. 6

   Blend the Soup

   Using an immersion blender or transferring to a countertop blender, blend the soup until smooth. If using a countertop blender, be careful with the hot liquid.

7. 7

   Add Cream (Optional)

   If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness to the soup. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

8. 8

   Serve

   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional fresh basil if desired. Serve hot.