Warm up with our Pistou Soup, a symphony of flavors with aged Mimolette, fresh basil, garlic, tomatoes, and tender vegetables in each delightful bowl.
Savory Symphony: A Warm Bowl of Pistou Soup with Aged Mimolette Delight
There’s an extraordinary comfort that comes with savoring a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s rich with fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a touch of culinary creativity. Pistou soup, a delightful staple from the Provence region of France, is a perfect example of such comfort food. Infused with the robust flavors of fresh basil and garlic in the pistou sauce, and elevated by the sophisticated tang of aged Mimolette cheese, this dish becomes a harmonious symphony of flavors. Let’s explore how to prepare this exquisite recipe and bring that magical Provençal warmth into your home.
Ingredients
For the Pistou Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 zucchinis, diced
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup dried small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pistou Sauce:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/2 cup aged Mimolette cheese, shaved or grated
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pistou Sauce
- In a food processor, combine basil leaves and garlic cloves. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of salt.
- While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until a smooth, thick sauce forms. Taste and adjust salt if necessary. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the diced carrots, zucchinis, and potato. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes, including their juices. Stir to combine.
- Add the green beans to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the soup to cook for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- Add the dried pasta of your choice to the pot of simmering soup.
- Cook according to package instructions until the pasta is al dente, generally about 8-10 minutes.
- Season the soup with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
- To serve, ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- Stir a generous tablespoon of the prepared pistou sauce into each bowl of soup, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish with shaved or grated aged Mimolette cheese for a delightful bite, adding depth to the dish.
- Finish with a few fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch.
Conclusion
Pistou Soup with Aged Mimolette Delight is more than just a hearty meal; it’s a celebration of rich flavors and fresh ingredients, uniquely brought to life with its vibrant pistou sauce. The addition of the aged Mimolette cheese not only adds a distinct sharpness but also enhances the texture of the dish with its creamy finish. Whether you’re having a quiet dinner alone or hosting a cozy gathering, this recipe promises warmth and delicious satisfaction in every bite. Enjoy this savory symphony and the warmth it brings, right from your very own kitchen. Bon appétit!