Take all of the classic flavors of caprese and put it into an amazing, easy to prepare soup. It's a satisfying, comforting and hearty tomato soup with melted mozzarella and fresh basil, served with balsamic vinegar drizzled on top.
1 T. extra virgin olive oil
½ white onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, crushed
½ t. salt
¼ t. black pepper
1 c. chicken stock/broth
2 -15 oz. cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes, drained
½ c. heavy cream
1 c. freshly chopped basil
8 oz. fresh mozzarella, sliced
2 T. balsamic vinegar
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat; add diced onion; saute 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic; cook 1 minute; add chicken stock/broth, diced tomatoes, salt and pepper; bring to a boil; simmer about 10 minutes.
Remove from heat. Add half of the fresh basil leaves. Use a handheld immersion blender to puree until smooth or transfer to a blender to puree. Return to the saucepan. Stir in heavy cream; taste; season to taste with salt and pepper.
Preheat broiler.
Ladle into oven safe bowls, each serving topped with a slice of mozzarella. Place in oven under the broil setting; broil until cheese is brown and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
Serve, garnished with basil and drizzled with balsamic vinegar.
4 servings.
*Use vegetable stock/broth for a vegetarian version, if desired.