There's no food that's more "comfort food" rich than soup! Warm, cuddly, aromatic, and healthful ... this ambrosia of good eating is also an excellent theme for a gift basket.
Who wants a soup gift basket? Anyone who needs a hug. Any friend who is experiencing a bumpy road -- layoff, broken heart, loss of a loved one, loss of a beloved pet ... even moving to a new neighborhood.
And to celebrate your friendship ... any day!
Here are some ideas for soup gift baskets:
Childhood Favorites
Tomato soup, Ritz crackers, a sprinkle of fresh herbs or cheese...yum!
Alphabet soup ... with a children's book about the alphabet, the more visuals the better! And don't forget animal crackers!
Creamy potato soup...yum, my favorite! Add some corn and you have corn chowder.
Historic Soups
Holiday Favorites: Make a gourmet splash with exotic flavors such as pumpkin, eggnog, rum, wine, champagne, and extra thick soups that can be used as a "dip".
America's historic foods are pumpkins and squash; corn; beans and cornbread, of course! Soup fixings can be cradled in a "souper" gift basket with a cute bowl or big cup, a soup ladle, or even a couple napkins!
Sizzle of the Sea
Seafood soups are so elegant and tummy-warming. Clam chowder, lobster bisque, and seafood samplers can be ordered from a gourmet deli and added to a basket with sea shells, flipflops...and a ticket to the beach in your own private shuttle. (That's an idea for people who live near the water and forget to take time to smell the surf!)
Seasonal Soups
If you're a gardener and you have shut-in friends, neighbors or family, how about taking your excess fresh produce and putting together a quart jar of soup that can be quickly heated in the microwave, and add some fresh break or homemake crackers, or even some scones from the neighborhood bakery?
Fall vegetables are super soupers! Squash, greens, pumpkins, tomatoes...add a hunk of flavorful cheese, and you have fall in a bowl!
Sympathy, Housewarming.... and Thinking of YOU, everyone loves soup. But many people have allergies or taste preferences, so do some snooping and learn to know the secret whimsy that makes your friend smile that deep, lovin' life kind of smile!
Gourmet Grocery Online is one source for gourmet soups.