Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Blender or food processor
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Remove from the heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
6. Transfer the soup to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
7. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the chopped basil.
8. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Temperature: Medium heat
Serving Size: 4
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 140
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 590mg
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Olive oil: canola oil
- Onion: shallot
- Garlic: garlic powder
- Vegetable broth: chicken broth
- Oregano: thyme
- Red pepper flakes: cayenne pepper
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked white beans for added protein
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked quinoa for added texture
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked corn for added sweetness
Tips and Tricks:
- For a creamier soup, add 1/2 cup of coconut milk or heavy cream
- For a spicier soup, add more red pepper flakes
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil.
Garnishes:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Freshly chopped basil
- Croutons
Pairings:
- Grilled cheese
- Caesar salad
- Garlic bread
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Baked potato
- Green salad
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more vegetable broth.
- If the soup is too thin, simmer for an additional 5 minutes to reduce the liquid.
Food Safety Advice:
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
Tomato and basil soup is a classic Italian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries.
Flavor Profiles:
This soup has a savory, slightly sweet flavor with a hint of spice from the red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Savory, Herby, Tangy, Tomato, Aromatic, Tomato-Y, tangy, herbaceous, comforting