Favorite Soup and Salad

When Heather is sick, she craves tomato soup and a grilled cheese sandwich. One day when I didn’t have a can of soup on hand, I had to improvise and discovered this spicy homemade version which delivers robust taste and delicious croutons which float on top, combining the favorite flavors she wants. Although I’ve never even liked tomato soup before, this recipe even had my taste buds doing the happy dance. Serve it with a Market Salad for a complete meal.

When you're craving soup and salad, this grown-up version of tomato soup hits the spot. Topped with homemade croutons, mozzarella and basil, it is a succulent treat even the most finicky appetite will enjoy. Serve it with a market salad to complete the meal.

Tomato Soup with Mozzarella Croutons

• 1 28-ounce can whole peeled plum tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

• 1/2 baguette, sliced (about 16 slices)
• Olive oil, for drizzling
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced
• Fresh basil leaves

1. Pulse tomatoes and liquid in a blender until chopped. Heat oil and red pepper flakes in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and onion. Cook, stirring, until onions are tender, about 6 minutes. Add tomatoes and stock and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and stir occasionally, until slightly reduced, about 30 minutes. Puree in batches until smooth; season with salt and pepper.
2. Meanwhile, drizzle bread with oil. Toast in 375° oven until it begins to turn golden, about 5 minutes. Top with mozzarella and return to oven. Cook until cheese begins to melt, about 1 minute more.
3. Top with fresh basil, season with salt and pepper, and serve with soup.

Market Salad

• 1 heart of romaine, washed and well dried
• Good quality extra-virgin olive oil
• Red-wine vinegar
• Salt (preferably sea salt flakes)
• Freshly ground black pepper

1. Tear the salad greens into a large salad bowl. Drizzle a bit of olive oil and vinegar over top and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat. Taste and add more oil, vinegar, salt or pepper if needed.