28 ounce can crushed san marzano tomatoes, or other crushed tomatoes
5 fresh medium tomatoes, chopped
2cupswater
1 teaspoon kosher salt
A handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped
salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
In a large pot over medium high heat, add the olive oil, garlic, onions, thyme, chili pepper flakes, and 1 tablespoon of butter.
Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes and the fresh chopped tomatoes. Stir and cook for 3 minutes.
Add 1 cup of water, stir, and bring the mixture to a boil. Add half of the chopped basil and turn the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 40 minutes.
After 20 minutes, add 1/2 cup of water, stir, and cover. Check on your soup every 10 minutes or so to give it a stir and make sure that the bottom isn’t burning.
Turn the heat off and puree the soup using an immersion blender (hand mixer). Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth.
Add the salt, the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and the remaining 1/2 cup of water, and stir well.
If the soup is too thick to your liking, add a little more water. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, if needed.
Divide the soup among 4 bowls and top with the remaining chopped basil and serve.
You can serve the soup with a bowl of grated parmesan cheese on the side, to sprinkle on top of the soup as well.
Notes
Store the leftover soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for 4-5 days.