Soupe de Tomates et Basilic

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ripe tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1 medium onion
• 3 cloves garlic cloves
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. 1

   Wash and chop the ripe tomatoes into quarters.

2. 2

   Finely chop the onion and garlic cloves.

3. 3

   In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

4. 4

   Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent.

5. 5

   Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

6. 6

   Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. 7

   Pour in the 4 cups of vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

8. 8

   Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

9. 9

   Add the fresh basil leaves, salt, and black pepper to the pot, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

10. 10

    Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly.

11. 11

    Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. (Alternatively, you can blend in batches using a countertop blender.)

12. 12

    Stir in the lemon juice for added brightness.

13. 13

    Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

14. 14

    Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.