Creamy Heirloom Tomato Soup with Garlic Croutons

Creamy Heirloom Tomato Soup with Garlic Croutons

Imagine a bowl of pure comfort that transforms ordinary heirloom tomatoes into a silky, creamy masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This Creamy Heirloom Tomato Soup isn't just another recipe—it's a culinary experience that elevates the humble tomato into a gourmet sensation. With golden, crispy garlic croutons adding a perfect crunch, this Italian-inspired dish promises to turn an everyday meal into an extraordinary dining adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

  1. 2 pounds heirloom tomatoes, chopped
  2. 1 onion, chopped
  3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 cup vegetable broth
  5. 1 cup heavy cream
  6. Salt and pepper to taste
  7. 1 loaf of bread, cubed for croutons
  8. Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the heirloom tomatoes by washing thoroughly and chopping into medium-sized chunks. Remove any stems or blemishes.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, being careful not to brown the garlic, which can create a bitter taste.
  4. Add chopped heirloom tomatoes to the pot and stir, allowing them to release their natural juices. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Pour in vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and flavors to meld.
  6. Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
  7. Return the soup to low heat and stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
  8. For the croutons, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut bread into small cubes, toss with olive oil, and spread on a baking sheet.
  9. Bake croutons for 10-12 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  10. Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with freshly made garlic croutons, and drizzle with a small amount of olive oil before serving.

Tips

  1. Choose ripe, colorful heirloom tomatoes for the most vibrant flavor and richness.
  2. Be gentle when sautéing garlic to prevent bitterness—30-45 seconds is the sweet spot.
  3. Use an immersion blender for easier and safer soup pureeing, minimizing kitchen mess.
  4. For extra smoothness, strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
  5. Don't rush the simmering process—letting the tomatoes break down slowly develops deeper flavors.
  6. If the soup is too thick, thin with a little extra vegetable broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered to reduce.
  7. For a gourmet touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 350kcal

Carbohydrates: 25g

Protein: 8g

Fat: 26g

Saturated Fat: 15g

Cholesterol: 85mg

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