Indulge in a nutrient-dense, antioxidant-rich classic that delivers deep, artisanal flavor in under 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 1/2 cups yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (freshly pressed for maximum allicin)
- 3/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 (28 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup (4 oz) Neufch
- 1 1/2 cups fat-free milk (or unsweetened almond milk for a lower glycemic load)
- 1/4 tsp. sea salt
- 1/4 tsp. freshly cracked black pepper
Recommended Ingredients:
Muir Glen Organic Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: [View on Amazon]
*Expert Tip: Organic fire-roasted tomatoes provide a superior antioxidant profile and a smoky complexity without artificial additives.
Instructions
- Sauté: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the onions and sauté.
- Build the Base: Incorporate the undrained fire-roasted tomatoes and fresh basil. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Incorporate Creaminess: Reduce heat slightly and add the cubed cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and integrated into the tomato base.
- Emulsify: Transfer the mixture to a high-speed blender or use an immersion blender. Blend until the texture is silky and homogenous.
- Simmer and Season: Return the soup to the saucepan. Whisk in the milk, salt, and pepper. Heat for an additional 2 minutes over medium-high heat until the soup reaches your preferred serving temperature.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra basil leaves if desired.
Essential Kitchen Tech:
Multi-Speed Immersion Blender: [View on Amazon]
*Expert Tip: An immersion blender allows you to emulsify the soup directly in the pot, minimizing cleanup and preventing the heat loss associated with traditional blending.
Professional Culinary Notes
Allow the soup to cool completely to room temperature before transferring to airtight glass containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. This soup often tastes better the second day as the basil infusions deepen.
This soup freezes exceptionally well. Store in silicone freezer bags or BPA-free containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop; you may need a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency after thawing.