Introduction
Tomato soup is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any season. Paired with crispy Parmesan crostini, this recipe takes the humble tomato soup to the next level. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this Tomato Soup with Parmesan Crostini is sure to please.
Ingredients
For the Tomato Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
For the Parmesan Crostini:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4 inch slices
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, halved
Instructions
Preparing the Tomato Soup:
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender. If using a blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to avoid hot splashes.
- Add Cream: If desired, stir in the heavy cream for a richer texture. Heat through, but do not boil. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Preparing the Parmesan Crostini:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Bread: Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush each slice with olive oil.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and golden brown.
- Add Parmesan: Remove the crostini from the oven and immediately rub each slice with the halved garlic clove. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each crostini.
- Return to Oven: Place the crostini back in the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tomato soup hot, topped with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh basil if desired. Pair with the warm, cheesy Parmesan crostini for a delightful and satisfying meal. This combination is perfect for a cozy night in or a casual get-together with friends and family.
Tips and Variations
- Vegan Option: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a splash of almond milk. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for the crostini.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a bit of heat.
- Herb Garnish: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme can add a burst of freshness to the soup.
Conclusion
This Tomato Soup with Parmesan Crostini is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy a delicious homemade meal. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!
Serving and Storage Tips for Tomato Soup with Parmesan Crostini
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Serve the tomato soup in wide, shallow bowls to allow for better cooling and easy dipping of the Parmesan crostini.
- Garnishes: Enhance the presentation with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil, or a dollop of sour cream. A few croutons or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can also add texture and flavor.
- Side Dishes: Complement the soup with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A glass of crisp white wine or a light red can also pair well with the flavors of the soup and crostini.
- Serving Crostini: Serve the Parmesan crostini on a separate plate or arrange them around the edge of the soup bowl. This keeps them crisp and makes for an attractive presentation.
- Dipping Fun: Encourage guests to dip the crostini into the soup for a delightful combination of textures and flavors. For an extra touch, offer a variety of crostini toppings like pesto, tapenade, or sun-dried tomatoes.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerating: Allow the tomato soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen and improve after a day or two.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Lay the bags flat in the freezer to save space. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave. Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup is too thick.
- Storing Crostini: Store any leftover Parmesan crostini in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To re-crisp, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes before serving.
- Batch Cooking: Consider making a double batch of soup and freezing half for a convenient, ready-made meal in the future. This is especially handy for busy weeknights or when you need a quick and comforting meal.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Tomato Soup with Parmesan Crostini fresh and delicious every time. Whether you’re serving it right away or saving it for later, this recipe is a versatile and satisfying option for any occasion.
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes for the soup?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes. To do so, blanch and peel about 10-12 medium-sized tomatoes. Chop them and use them in place of the canned crushed tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes will give the soup a slightly different flavor and may require a longer cooking time to break down properly.
2. What can I substitute for heavy cream to make the soup dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version of the soup, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk, almond milk, or any other plant-based milk. You can also use a dairy-free creamer for a richer texture. Adjust the amount to taste, and note that different milk alternatives may slightly change the flavor of the soup.
3. Can I prepare the Parmesan crostini in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Parmesan crostini in advance. After baking and adding the Parmesan cheese, allow the crostini to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To re-crisp before serving, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes until they are warm and crispy again.
4. How can I make the soup spicier?
To add some heat to the tomato soup, you can incorporate a few options:
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch or more of red pepper flakes to the soup while it simmers.
- Fresh Chilies: Finely chop a fresh chili pepper, such as a jalapeño or serrano, and sauté it with the onions and garlic at the beginning.
- Hot Sauce: Stir in a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the soup after blending.
Adjust the amount based on your desired level of spiciness. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.