Imagine a bowl of velvety, rich tomato soup that warms your soul and tantalizes your taste buds. This "Perfect Tomato Soup with Parmesan Croutons" is not just a meal; it's a comforting embrace on a chilly day! With the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, this Italian classic is elevated by crispy, cheesy croutons that add a delightful crunch to every spoonful. Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe promises to transform simple ingredients into a gourmet experience that will have you coming back for seconds. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how to create a bowl of happiness that your family will love!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 slices of bread for croutons
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure the onion is chopped and the garlic is minced for easy cooking.
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion.
- Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.
- Next, pour in the two cans of crushed tomatoes and the cup of vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Add 1 teaspoon of sugar to the pot. This will help balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After 20 minutes, remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to carefully puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender, but be cautious with the hot liquid.
- Once the soup is blended to your desired consistency, return it to the pot over low heat. Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream for added richness and creaminess. Allow the soup to heat through for about 5 minutes.
- While the soup is heating, prepare the Parmesan croutons. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the 4 slices of bread into cubes and place them in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with a little olive oil and toss to coat.
- Add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl and toss again until the bread cubes are evenly coated with cheese.
- Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, turning halfway through for even browning.
- Once the croutons are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- To serve, ladle the hot tomato soup into bowls and top with a generous handful of Parmesan croutons. Optionally, garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.
- Enjoy your perfect tomato soup with Parmesan croutons!
Tips
- Ingredient Prep: Make sure to chop your onion and mince your garlic before you start cooking. This will streamline the cooking process and help you avoid any last-minute scrambling.
- Sautéing: Keep an eye on the onions while sautéing. You want them to be translucent and slightly golden, which typically takes about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Balancing Acidity: Adding a teaspoon of sugar to the tomatoes helps balance their acidity. This small step can significantly enhance the overall flavor of your soup.
- Blending: For a perfectly smooth texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. If using a countertop blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches to avoid any splatter.
- Crouton Perfection: When making the Parmesan croutons, make sure to toss the bread cubes well with olive oil and cheese for an even coating. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Baking Tips: Keep an eye on your croutons as they bake. They can go from perfectly golden to burnt quickly. Turning them halfway through baking helps achieve an even crispiness.
- Serving Suggestions: For an extra touch, garnish your soup with additional grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.Enjoy crafting this delightful soup, and don't forget to share it with loved ones for a truly heartwarming experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
