Crock Pot Parmesan Basil Tomato Soup

 

I am trying to use my crock pot more and hopefully have it save me some time in the kitchen. Life has been so busy, hectic and chaotic lately, having time to cook is becoming more and more scarce. 

This soup definitely saves some time in the kitchen. The only cooking that needs to be done is the onions and carrots. After that, it is basically a dump, set it and let the crock pot do its work. Then give it a quick blend and your delicious creamy homemade tomato soup is ready.

Crock Pot Parmesan Basil Tomato Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup chopped onions
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 15 ounces tomato sauce
• 2-28 ounce cans whole peeled tomatoes
• 1/4 cup roasted garlic cloves
• 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 tablespoons basil pesto
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup half and half

Directions:

1. In a large skillet, over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in the onions and cook until they start to turn translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add in the carrots and continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring often.
2. Transfer the cooked veggies to a crock pot. Add in the tomato sauce, tomatoes, roasted garlic, sun dried tomatoes, sugar, dried basil, Italian seasoning, vegetable broth, bay leaf, basil pesto and balsamic vinegar. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours for the best flavor or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Remove the bay leaf and discard. Add in the basil leaves and stir to combine. Using an immersion blender, blend until smooth or transfer in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.
4. Stir in the half and half.

Enjoy!!!

Nutrition Facts
Servings: 8
Amount Per Serving
Calories: 218
Total Fat		10.7g
Saturated Fat		4.5g
Trans Fat		0.1g
Polyunsaturated Fat		1g
Monounsaturated Fat		2.2g
Cholesterol		24.7mg
Sodium		1155.6mg
Total Carbohydrates		23g
Dietary Fiber		4.6g
Sugars		15.5g
Protein		5g
Calcium		13.3%
Iron		17.9%
Potassium		395mg
Vitamin A		187.4%
Vitamin C		46%
*Nutritional information will vary depending on the brands you use.

*Adapted from Little Spice Jar.