Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup

Ingredients

• 2 pounds (approx. 16) Roma (plum) tomatoes, quartered
• 1 large onion, peeled and quartered
• 5–6 garlic cloves or a generous handful, peeled
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons dried basil
• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 quart water or vegetable broth
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Grated kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese, for garnish
• 1 croissant
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or gouda cheese
• 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil or oregano

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).

2. 2

   Prepare vegetables: Wash and quarter the Roma tomatoes....: Prepare vegetables: Wash and quarter the Roma tomatoes. Place them in a large roasting pan with the quartered onion and garlic cloves.

3. 3

   Season: Drizzle with olive oil and season with...: Season: Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Toss to coat.

4. 4

   Roast: Bake for 45–60 minutes, until edges are...: Roast: Bake for 45–60 minutes, until edges are caramelized and vegetables are tender.

5. 5

   Blend: Working in batches, puree the roasted vegetables...: Blend: Working in batches, puree the roasted vegetables with the tomato paste and broth (or water) until smooth.

6. 6

   Simmer: Pour the soup into a pot and...: Simmer: Pour the soup into a pot and bring to a boil. Add more liquid to reach your desired consistency.

7. 7

   Finish: Stir in the heavy cream. Taste and...: Finish: Stir in the heavy cream. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.

8. 8

   Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and grated cheese....: Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and grated cheese. Serve hot with grilled cheese croissants.

9. 9

   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

10. 10

    Assemble: Slice the croissant in half horizontally. Layer...: Assemble: Slice the croissant in half horizontally. Layer the cheeses and herbs on the bottom half. Top with the other half.

11. 11

    Bake: Toast in the oven on a parchment-lined...: Bake: Toast in the oven on a parchment-lined tray for 5–6 minutes, until cheese melts and croissant is golden.