Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons

 

Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons

This Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons is a comforting, flavorful dish that pairs creamy tomato soup with crispy, cheesy croutons. Perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner!

---

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• For the Tomato Basil Soup:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups canned tomatoes (whole or crushed)
  • 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• For the Grilled Cheese Croutons:
  • 4 slices of bread (sourdough or any bread of your choice)
  • 4 slices of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
  • 2 tablespoons butter

---

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Soup:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
   • Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   • Add canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, tomato paste, sugar (if using), red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
   • Simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth (or transfer to a blender in batches).
   • Stir in fresh basil and heavy cream (if using). Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
2. Make the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:
   • Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place cheese between two slices of bread, with the buttered sides facing out.
   • Grill in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Cut the Croutons:
   • Once the grilled cheese sandwiches are ready, cut them into bite-sized cubes to make croutons.
4. Serve:
   • Ladle the tomato soup into bowls and top with the grilled cheese croutons.
   • Garnish with extra fresh basil, if desired.

---

Tips:

• Storage: The soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving.
• Freezing: Tomato basil soup freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• For Extra Flavor: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a drizzle of olive oil on top of the soup before serving.

Enjoy your hearty and delicious Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons!