Fresh Tomato and Basil Soup

Ingredients

• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh basil leaves (1 cup, packed)
• Vegetable broth (4 cups)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Onion (1 medium, chopped)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Tomatoes (6 large, ripe)

Instructions

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Score a small 'X' on the bottom of each tomato.
2. Place the tomatoes in the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to a bowl of ice water.
3. Peel the skin off the tomatoes and remove the cores. Chop the tomatoes into small pieces.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, until they start to soften.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
7. Add the fresh basil leaves to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, if desired.