Tomato Soup with Basil Pesto Recipe by Jamie Oliver

Jamie Oliver’s Tomato Soup with Basil Pesto is a deliciously comforting dish that combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the aromatic, vibrant flavor of fresh basil pesto. This simple yet flavorful soup is perfect for chilly days and can be made in just a few easy steps. It’s the ultimate bowl of warmth that’s both hearty and healthy!

Ingredients:

• For the Tomato Soup:

  • 800g (28 oz) ripe tomatoes, chopped

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 carrot, peeled and chopped

  • 1 stick celery, chopped

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

  • 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable stock

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

• For the Basil Pesto:

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed

  • 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Make the Soup:

   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened.

   • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until it darkens slightly.

   • Add the chopped tomatoes, and season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine, and cook for 10-12 minutes until the tomatoes break down and soften.

   • Add the vegetable stock, bring to a simmer, and cook for another 10 minutes.

   • Once cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches. Adjust seasoning as needed.

2. Prepare the Basil Pesto:

   • While the soup is simmering, make the pesto by adding the fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic to a food processor.

   • Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until a smooth paste forms. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Serve:

   • Pour the tomato soup into bowls, and add a generous spoonful of basil pesto on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, and extra grated Parmesan if desired.

   • Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping.

   • Jamie Oliver’s Tomato Soup with Basil Pesto is the ultimate comfort food with a twist. The rich and smooth tomato soup is elevated with a fresh, vibrant basil pesto that adds an extra layer of flavor. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a light lunch, this soup combines simple ingredients to create a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying it with crusty bread or on its own, this soup will warm you up in no time.

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     Why You’ll Love This Tomato Soup with Basil Pesto

     • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or a quick lunch.

     • Flavorful and Fresh: The pesto adds a burst of freshness to the rich, savory tomato base.

     • Nutritious and Healthy: Made with fresh tomatoes, vegetables, and a light pesto, this soup is packed with vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats.

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     Health Benefits of Tomato Soup with Basil Pesto

     1. Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene, tomatoes support heart health and boost immunity.

     2. Basil: Fresh basil provides anti-inflammatory properties and is high in vitamin K, which is important for bone health.

     3. Olive Oil: Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats that support heart health and reduce inflammation.

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     FAQs

     1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
     Yes! This tomato soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pesto can also be stored separately in an airtight container in the fridge.

     2. Can I freeze the soup?
     Yes, the tomato soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

     3. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
     Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian! It’s also easily adaptable for vegan diets by substituting the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative.

     Jamie Oliver’s Tomato Soup with Basil Pesto is the perfect balance of fresh, hearty, and flavorful. The smooth, rich tomato soup paired with the aromatic pesto elevates this dish to a new level. Whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as healthy as it is delicious