amazing soup

Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes Yields: 6 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (28 ounces each) whole peeled tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
• Croutons (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
   • Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional minute. Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juices. Break up the tomatoes with a spoon.
3. Season and Simmer:
   • Stir in dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
4. Blend Soup:
   • Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender, blending until smooth, and then return it to the pot.
5. Finish with Cream:
   • Stir in the heavy cream, and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
   • Ladle the creamy tomato basil soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, and croutons if desired.
7. Enjoy:
   • Serve the soup hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this creamy tomato basil soup.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 220
• Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 5g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used. Adjust quantities according to personal preferences and dietary needs. This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is sure to warm your soul with its rich and comforting flavors. Enjoy!