My commuter bike is due for a new set of tires. I've currently got set of 37mm Vittoria Randonneur tires on my 700c wheels.

Any recommendations? Here is what I'm looking for:

#1 Comfort. I have sort of decided I don't want to be jarred or feel like I have to choose roads on my way to work based on how smooth the road is. I of course did not have to do that with the Vittorias...but I still felt they were a bit harsh for their size.

#2 Speed. My round trip commute is 24 miles. Not astronomical, but not exactly a few blocks down the street either. I'd like something relatively quick where I don't feel like I'm stuck in mud, but not to the point of severely sacrificing comfort.

#3 Puncture protection. A bit would be nice. A lot of course would be better, but I am assuming I am going to have to choose at most 2 of my 3 things. I carry a tube, patchkit, levers, and pump with me, but honestly feel a bit foolish for doing so having not had one flat in thousands of miles on the Vittorias. If I need to sacrifice something, I'll sacrifice flat protection.

So....best choices out there?