Roasted Red Pepper Soup (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 6 large red bell peppers
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 large onion, chopped
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 4 cups low sodium vegetable broth
06 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1 teaspoon dried basil
08 - Salt and pepper to taste
09 - 1 cup heavy cream
10 - Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Cut red bell peppers in half, remove seeds and membranes. Place cut side down on a foil-lined baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes until skins are charred and blistered.
02 - Transfer roasted peppers to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let steam for 10 minutes to loosen skins. Once cool enough to handle, peel off skins and set roasted peppers aside.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
04 - Add roasted peppers to the pot with vegetable broth, smoked paprika, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes to meld flavors.
05 - Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches using a countertop blender.
06 - Stir in heavy cream and heat through for a few minutes. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Enhance with spices by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra smoked paprika when seasoning.
02 - For a vegan-friendly option, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
03 - Add texture by topping with roasted pepitas, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil.