A wholesome, velvety bisque built from simple, minimally processed ingredients. The parmesan crisps add satisfying texture and an elegant finish.
Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Bisque
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes (no sugar added)
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- ½ cup light coconut milk or organic half-and-half (for creaminess without heaviness)
- Optional: a splash of apple cider vinegar to brighten flavors
For the Parmesan Crisps
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Optional seasoning: cracked pepper or Italian seasoning
Instructions
Prepare the Bisque
- Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté 6–8 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add tomato paste, smoked paprika, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Toast the tomato paste for 1–2 minutes to deepen its flavor.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15–20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree until velvety (or carefully transfer to a blender in batches).
- Return to the pot and stir in coconut milk or half-and-half. Adjust seasoning and add a small splash of apple cider vinegar if the tomatoes need balancing.
- Keep warm on low heat.
Make the Parmesan Crisps
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place tablespoon-sized mounds of parmesan on the sheet, leaving space between each.
- Lightly pat them down into thin circles.
- Bake 5–7 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Cool completely before lifting (they firm as they cool).
Serving Suggestions
- Ladle the bisque into warmed bowls and float one or two parmesan crisps on top.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh basil for color.
- Pair with a simple mixed-green salad to keep the meal light and balanced.
Wellness Notes
- The blend of carrots, celery, and tomato delivers naturally occurring antioxidants and phytonutrients.
- Coconut milk provides creaminess while keeping the dairy load minimal.
- Parmesan crisps offer a satisfying crunch without the carbohydrates of croutons.
- This recipe freezes well, making it friendly for busy families.