Best Roasted Red Pepper Soup Recipe - How to Make Red Pepper Soup

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided
• 4 c. low-sodium vegetable stock
• 2 (12-oz.) jars roasted red peppers, drained and sliced 
• 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
• 1/2 c. heavy cream 
• 2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, plus more
• 1 c. shredded smoked gouda
• 1/4 c. fresh basil leaves