Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss quartered tomatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, a pinch of salt and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet cut side up. Roast for 25–30 minutes until edges caramelize.

Sauté aromatics

While tomatoes roast, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 6–8 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.

Simmer

Add roasted tomatoes (including any juices), tomato paste, stock, sugar, salt and pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat and simmer gently for 12–15 minutes to meld flavors.

Blend and finish

Remove pot from heat. Add fresh basil leaves. Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth (or transfer in batches to a blender). Return to low heat, stir in heavy cream if using, adjust seasoning to taste. Keep warm until serving.

Grilled Chicken Panini

Prepare and grill chicken

Pound each chicken breast to an even 1–1.25 cm thickness. In a bowl combine 2 tbs olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, salt and pepper. Coat chicken with marinade and let sit 10–15 minutes. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high and grill chicken 4–5 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

Assemble panini

Spread 1½ tbs pesto on the bottom half of each ciabatta. Layer sliced grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, roasted red peppers and baby spinach. Top with remaining pesto and close sandwich.

Grill panini

Butter the outside of each sandwich (1 tbs each side) and grill in a panini press or heavy skillet with a weighted lid over medium heat for 3–5 minutes per side, until bread is golden and cheese is melted. Slice and keep warm.

Mixed Greens Side Salad

Make dressing

In a small bowl whisk together 2 tbs olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt and pepper until emulsified.

Toss salad

In a large bowl combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber and red onion. Drizzle dressing over salad and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately alongside soup and panini.