Calphalon - Slow Cooked Tomato Parmesan Soup with Parmesan Croutons

For the soup:

1 onion, large diced

3 garlic cloves, smashed

1 shallot, sliced

3 lbs. fresh tomatoes, chopped

2 Tbsp. tomato paste

1 46-oz. can Vegetable V8

46 oz. vegetable stock

5 - 7 sprigs thyme

5 - 7 large leaves basil

2 tsp. dried oregano

2 tsp. dried rosemary

1 large Parmesan rind (rind only)

1 c. heavy cream

salt and freshly ground pepper

fresh basil, chiffonade, for garnish

For the parmesan croutons:

2 c. croutons, any kind

cooking spray, butter or olive oil

Parmesan cheese, shredded

Place all ingredients in a 7-qt. slow cooker (excluding croutons & chopped basil). Turn to High for 5 hours.

After 5 hours, remove the thyme, fresh basil and parmesan rind.

Place half to most of the liquid into a blender (amount depends on desired smoothness); blend on high speed.

Return to slow cooker and stir in blended soup, turning to Low heat. Add the cream and salt and pepper to taste.

To prepare croutons, add croutons to a baking sheet and evenly coat with cooking spray. Sprinkle croutons with shredded parmesan cheese.

Bake for 5 - 10 minutes or until croutons are browned and cheese is melted.

Serve soup while hot with parmesan croutons and freshly chopped basil.

Slow Cooked Tomato Parmesan Soup with Parmesan Croutons