Caramelized Onion Soup with Golden Raisin Pesto

Serves 8

INGREDIENTS

  • olive oil, as needed
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped or sliced
  • 4 large ripe tomatoes; cored, peeled and diced*
  • 1 qt. chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper, to tasteGolden Raisin Pesto

GOLDEN RAISIN PESTO

  • 1/2 bunch cilantro
  • 3 tbsp. lemon juice
  • olive oil, as needed
  • 1/4 c. pine nuts
  • 1 c. California golden raisins
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Cilantro leaves; for garnish
  • Whole California golden raisins; for garnish

PREPARATION

1 In sautépan, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil until almost smoking.
2 Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring constantly.
3 Stir in garlic and tomatoes, stirring all the while; cook about 5 minutes.
4  Then add broth; bring to a boil and let simmer for 10 minutes more. Salt and pepper to taste.
5 Golden Raisin Pesto
6 In blender or food processor, combine cilantro, lemon juice, olive oil as needed, pine nuts and raisins.
7 Pulse until well blended and smooth. Salt and pepper to taste.
8 To serve, adjust seasonings in soup; divide and ladle into bowls. Garnish with dollop of pesto, fresh cilantro leaves and whole raisins.

*Notes: One can (28 ounces) whole tomatoes may be substituted. If cream soup is preferred, purée soup in blender and add 1 cup of heavy cream.