Tomato Basil Soup

This very quick version of the classic tomato soup is just right for a refreshingly light supper. Serve it hot in winter with toasted French bread and cheese (see Serving Suggestion, below) or cold in summer. Look to the fresh tomato variation below for even more flavor when tomatoes are in season.
NotesServing Suggestion:
Toasted French bread spread with light Boursin cheese is a great stand-in for the more traditional toasted cheese sandwich. Lightly spread each slice of crusty bread with cheese. Place on broiler pan. Broil for 2 minutes or until lightly browned and cheese is melted.
Makes6 cups (1.5 L), about 5 servings
CostModerate
Total Timeunder 1 hour
Kid FriendlyYes
Recipe Courseappetizer, main course
Dietary Considerationegg-free, gluten-free, halal, kosher, lactose-free, peanut free, soy free, tree nut free
Equipmentblender, food processor
Five Ingredients or LessYes
Mealdinner, lunch
Taste and Texturegarlicky, herby, light, savory, tangy
Type of Dishsoup
Ingredients
- 3 cups (750 mL) chicken stock
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz/798 mL) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup (250 mL) fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
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In a large saucepan over high heat, bring stock, garlic and tomatoes to a boil. Reduce heat. Cover and cook slowly for 20 minutes.
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Remove from heat. Cool slightly before puréeing half of soup in a food processor or blender until smooth. Repeat with remaining soup.
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Return to saucepan. Add basil and reheat to serving temperature. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Fresh Tomato Basil Variation:
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Replace canned tomatoes with 6 large peeled and diced tomatoes. Add 1/4 cup (50 mL) tomato paste during the cooking and follow method using all ingredients.
2002 Margaret Howard