Fresh Tomato Soup Enriched with EVOO and Served with Rustic Toast

• 4 medium to large tomatoes
• 3 grilled red bell peppers in oil
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus additional for brushing
• 3 tablespoons sherry vinegar
• 1 shallot, peeled
• 1 garlic clove, peeled
• 10 basil leaves
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 4 slices crusty bread (gluten-free, if needed; see note below)

1. Cut a small cross in the bottom of each tomato and submerge them in boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove them to a bowl of ice water and let them cool for 30 seconds. Peel off the tomato skins.
2. Put the peeled tomatoes, red bell peppers, extra-virgin olive oil, vinegar, shallot, garlic, and basil in your blender and puree until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture into a large pot over medium heat, and heat until cooked through.
4. Brush the bread with olive oil and grill for 2 minutes per side over medium-high heat, or until visible grill marks have formed.