Summer Tomato Soup with Basil Oil

6 servings

25 minutes

Summer tomato soup with basil oil is the true embodiment of sunshine on a plate. This light, refreshing soup from European cuisine beautifully highlights the sweetness of ripe summer tomatoes, harmoniously complemented by the aroma of fresh basil. The history of such soups traces back to the rustic traditions of the Mediterranean, where simple yet quality ingredients transform into culinary masterpieces. The taste is delicate and rich, with subtle notes of red wine vinegar that add a slight tang and depth. The finishing touch is basil oil that reveals the full power of herbal aromas. This soup is perfect for a light summer lunch or as an elegant first course at dinner with friends. It’s best served warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of fragrant oil.

Energy value per serving

• Calories: 416.1
• Proteins: 2.3g
• Fats: 39g
• Carbohydrates: 15g

Ingredients

• Olive oil: 30 ml
• Garlic: 2 clove
• Tomatoes: 2 kg
• Red wine vinegar: to taste
• Green basil: 30 g
• Extra virgin olive oil: 200 ml
• Sea salt: to taste

Cooking steps

1. To make basil oil, pluck basil leaves and finely chop the stems. Place some leaves in a bowl of cold water for later, then crush the rest with a pestle in a mortar. Add a pinch of sea salt and mash the basil leaves until they turn into a dark green paste. Transfer the paste to a jug and add first-press olive oil. Mix well.

   Required ingredients:

   • Green basil: 30 g
   • Extra virgin olive oil: 200 ml
   • Sea salt:  to taste

2. To make the soup, pour a little olive oil into the largest pan and heat it over medium heat.

   Required ingredients:

   • Olive oil: 30 ml

3. Clean and chop the garlic and add it to the pan along with the basil stems. Sauté for about a minute, then add all the tomatoes.

   Required ingredients:

   • Garlic: 2 cloves
   • Green basil: 30 g
   • Tomatoes: 2 kg

4. Add 150 ml of water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and let the tomatoes cook for 5 minutes until they are slightly softened. If the tomatoes are good and ripe, they will be naturally sweet and soft, meaning the soup doesn't need to be cooked for too long.

   Required ingredients:

   • Tomatoes: 2 kg

5. Remove the soup from the heat, add a little red wine vinegar, then blend thoroughly until smooth.

   Required ingredients:

   • Red wine vinegar:  to taste

6. Serve in warm plates, drizzled with bright green basil oil and sprinkled with remaining basil leaves.

   Required ingredients:

   • Green basil: 30 g