Creamy Tomato Soup with Oleastro Olive Oil

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this creamy tomato soup, elevated with a drizzle of Oleastro Olive Oil, bringing a touch of Cyprus’s culinary heritage to your table. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines ripe tomatoes, aromatic vegetables, and rich, velvety cream, finished with the luxurious taste of Oleastro Olive Oil for a soup that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons Oleastro Olive Oil, plus more for drizzling
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 2 cans (14 oz each) whole peeled tomatoes, with their juice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to taste)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a vegan option
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of Oleastro Olive Oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Simmer the Soup: Add the whole peeled tomatoes with their juice to the pot, breaking the tomatoes apart with a spoon. Stir in the vegetable broth, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered, for about 20 minutes or until the vegetables are very tender.
3. Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. Return the soup to the pot if using a blender.
4. Add Cream and Season: Stir in the cream or coconut milk and basil. Warm the soup over low heat, adjusting the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Drizzle generously with Oleastro Olive Oil and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side of your choice.

This creamy tomato soup with Oleastro Olive Oil is not just a meal; it’s an experience, offering a comforting warmth with every spoonful. The richness of the olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of elegance, making it a perfect dish for both casual family dinners and more formal gatherings. Enjoy the taste of Cyprus right at your table with