Basil, Walnut And Garlic Soup
A vibrant, aromatic soup blending fresh basil, walnuts, garlic, and Parmesan, perfect for a flavorful appetizer or light meal for basil lovers and soup enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a blender, blend basil, olive oil, walnuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic until thick and smooth.
- Transfer the blended mixture to a large pot.
- Add chicken broth to the pot and heat over moderate heat until very hot.
- Ladle the soup into heated bowls and serve with additional freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a few tablespoons of heavy cream after blending the soup. You can substitute walnuts with pine nuts or almonds if desired. Fresh basil is key for the flavor, but if unavailable, you can use 1 tablespoon of dried basil instead. Adjust garlic to taste, and feel free to add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a light meal. For a complete experience, consider serving it alongside Rice Pilav or as a starter before a hearty chicken recipe.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basil, Walnut And Garlic Soup contains roughly 2230 calories, with 3g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 250g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or substituting it with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also enhance the flavor with nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy taste without dairy.
How can I adjust the thickness of the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, blend in additional walnuts or reduce the amount of chicken broth added. Conversely, for a thinner consistency, simply add more broth during the heating process until it reaches your desired thickness.
What can I pair with this soup for a full meal?
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can enhance your meal by serving it with a side of Fragrant Baked Potatoes or a simple green salad. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with Mediterranean recipes that include grilled vegetables or a protein like chicken.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).