Place the garlic and olive oil in a large pan and cook gently for a minute. Add the tomatoes, cover and simmer for 10 minutes stirring occasionally until soft and concentrated. Add the tomato puree, 425ml (3/4pt) water and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Bring to a boil then add the bread and stir until it has absorbed the liquid. Cool slightly before stirring in the basil.
In a food processor, blend the mixture until smooth. Add additional seasoning and serve with croutons. If desired, drizzle with more olive oil for additional flavour.
Filippo Berio’s classic, balanced Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Taken from the first cold pressing of the olives, this oil is ideal for sauces, marinades, drizzling and dipping.