Organic Fresh Basil, celebrated for its sweet, earthy aroma and bright flavor, is the cornerstone of this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Roasted Garlic recipe. The vibrant freshness of the basil pairs impeccably with the deep, complex flavors of roasted garlic and the natural acidity of tomatoes, offering a gourmet experience in the comfort of your home. This soup is more than a dish; it’s a warm, comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for any season and sure to delight a wide array of palates.
Ingredients:
Fresh Tomatoes (2 pounds, ripe, coarsely chopped)
Organic Fresh Basil https://greenelly.com/product/jacobs-farm-organic-fresh-basil-0-74-oz/ (1 cup, chopped, plus extra leaves for garnish)
Garlic (1 whole head, plus 2 cloves minced)
Onion (1 medium, diced)
Vegetable or Chicken Broth (4 cups)
Heavy Cream (1/2 cup)
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
Butter (2 tablespoons)
Sugar (1 teaspoon, optional)
Salt (to taste)
Black Pepper (to taste)
Parmesan Cheese (grated, for serving, optional)
Steps to Prepare:
Roast the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top of the whole garlic head to expose the cloves. Drizzle with a teaspoon of olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast until cloves are golden and soft, about 30 minutes. Once done, let it cool, then squeeze the cloves from their skins.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large pot, heat the butter and the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5-6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes: Incorporate the chopped tomatoes into the pot. Stir in the roasted garlic cloves, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the tomatoes are broken down and releasing their juices.
Pour in Broth: Add the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes.
Add Basil: Stir in the chopped basil, reserving a few leaves for garnish, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. The basil’s freshness will infuse the soup with its distinctive flavor.
Blend the Soup: Remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer to a standard blender in batches, ensuring it’s cool enough to handle safely.
Finish with Cream: Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or sugar as needed.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. A crusty slice of bread would complement this soup wonderfully.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Roasted Garlic is a testament to the power of fresh, organic ingredients, bringing an orchestra of flavors to your table. The roasted garlic elevates the soup with its caramelized depth, while the fresh basil provides a burst of herbal freshness that’s unmatched. This soup is perfect for all occasions, whether you’re looking for a light yet satisfying meal, a starter for your dinner party, or simply a heartwarming dish to enjoy any day of the week. Indulge in the richness and simplicity of this soup, and let each spoonful soothe and delight your senses.
