Tomato Basil Soup (85) and Garlic Knots (86)

While taking pictures of dinner, Blythe asked me to take her picture.  How could I resist that face!  Growing up we would often road trip to Dallas to see my aunt.  We had several staple restaurants where we had to eat on these trips and one of those places was La Madeline.  The desserts and pastries are enough to entice anyone to eat there but the food is equally delicious.  I remember having their tomato basil soup one visit and I loved it.  This was notable because I’m not typically a fan of tomato soup.  I realize that it’s a staple in many homes but try as I might, I’ve been unable to acquire a taste for it.  When I saw this recipe for Le Madeline Tomato Basil Soup, I knew I had to give it a try.  We eat lots of soup during the winter so I am always looking for new soups to add to the rotation.

For starters, this is one of the easiest soups that I have ever made.  It only requires a handful of ingredients and it came together in 30 minutes.  This soup is incredibly creamy and the flavors are rich.  Blythe even ate two bowls so it must be good!  If you love tomato soup, give this recipe a try.  If you’ve never been a fan of tomato soup, I think this recipe could win you over.

We paired this with Parmesan Garlic Knots.  Equally easy, you simple roll biscuit dough into ropes and tie them into knots.  Once baked, brush with Parmesan mixture.  I substituted butter for the canola oil because I like the flavor better.  I Used 1/4 cup butter, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon oregano, and 1 tsp garlic powder.  The flavor was very strong so I think I’d cut back to 1/2 tsp garlic.  I also think I’d use 1/8 cup butter as well.

This was a fantastic dinner for a cold winter night.  This meal would be perfect for a busy night during the holidays when you want to provide your family with a delicious meal but are short on time.  I’d love to know, what’s your favorite soup recipe?