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Starting with the base of any great soup, olive oil plays a vital role in enhancing the overall flavor profile. This heart-healthy oil not only serves as a cooking medium but also adds a subtle richness that complements the other ingredients. When sautéed, aromatics like onions and garlic release their natural sugars and oils, creating a savory foundation that sets the tone for the entire dish. The sweetness of the onions combined with the pungent aroma of garlic forms an irresistible base that invites everyone to gather around the table.

Cozy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Warm up your chilly evenings with this Cozy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup, a comforting classic that’s easy to make and brimming with flavor! This recipe combines rich tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fresh basil to create a satisfying bowl of goodness. Perfect for pairing with rustic bread or a gooey grilled cheese, this soup not only delights your taste buds but also offers health benefits. Discover the joy of making homemade soup and embrace the warmth it brings to your kitchen.
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Ingredients
  

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes (with their juices)

3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian option)

1 tablespoon sugar (to balance acidity)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a dairy-free option)

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus additional leaves for garnish)

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for added depth of flavor)

Instructions
 

Sauté Aromatics: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent, stirring occasionally. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, or until fragrant.

    Cook Tomatoes: Pour the canned diced tomatoes into the pot along with their juices. Add the vegetable broth, sugar, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Increase the heat slightly, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for around 15 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.

      Blend the Soup: After simmering, carefully use an immersion blender to purée the soup until completely smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you may transfer the soup in batches to a traditional blender, blending until velvety. Return the blended soup to the heat.

        Creamy Finish: Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and the chopped basil leaves. If you choose to enhance the flavor, pour in the balsamic vinegar now. Reheat the soup over low heat for about 5 more minutes, just until warmed through. Taste and season with salt and freshly cracked pepper as desired.

          Serve: When ready to serve, ladle the soup into warm bowls. Garnish each bowl with additional fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. For an elegant touch, drizzle a little extra cream on top and sprinkle with a pinch of red pepper flakes or freshly cracked black pepper.

            Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4-6 bowls

              Presentation Tips: Serve the soup with rustic bread or grilled cheese on the side for a cozy meal. Consider using a vibrant bowl to highlight the rich colors of the soup.