Preparation
STEP 1
PREHEAT oven to 350˚F.
STEP 2
FOR THE SOUP: In a medium ovenproof pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3–5 minutes. Add garlic and Italian seasoning and cook until fragrant, approximately 1 minute. Pour in the can of tomatoes. Add 1 cup of water. Bring the soup to a simmer and then immediately turn the heat down to low. Cook the soup uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until slightly thickened and very fragrant.
STEP 3
TRANSFER the soup, in batches if necessary, to a blender and pulse until very smooth, allowing steam to escape while you process (or use an immersion blender and blend the soup in the pot). Return the puréed soup to the pot and add salt. Mix in the additional water, as needed, if the soup is too thick. Set aside.
STEP 4
FOR THE DUMPLINGS: In a medium bowl mix together the flour, baking powder, salt and black pepper. Add cheese and mix until evenly distributed. Pour in the buttermilk and mix until the dough is combined and wet. Using a tablespoon or ice cream scooper, drop balls of dough into the soup.
STEP 5
COVER the pot with ALCAN® standard Foil and transfer to the oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked and fluffy.
STEP 6
GARNISH each soup bowl with pepper and a sprinkling of parsley.