Pea and Basil Soup

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 pounds (about 4 1/2 cups) frozen peas
• 3/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
• 2 cups chicken broth, divided
• 2 cups cream
• 4 to 6 very thin slices fresh mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup diced roasted red bell peppers (jarred is fine)

Directions

Place a medium soup pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil, butter, onions, garlic, salt and pepper. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the peas and basil, and heat until the peas are thawed.

Place the pea mixture in a blender. Add 1 cup of the chicken broth and pulse until pureed, adding more broth, if necessary, to puree. Return the pureed mixture to the pot. Stir in the remaining chicken broth and cream. Return the pan to medium heat and cook until hot, but not boiling.

To serve, place the soup in bowls. Float a thin slice of fresh mozzarella cheese on top of each soup and sprinkle with the diced roasted red bell peppers. Serve immediately.