Embrace the ultimate comfort food pairing with our Classic Tomato Soup and Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sandwiches. This timeless duo combines the rich, velvety smoothness of tomato soup with the crispy, gooey delight of grilled cheese sandwiches. It's a simple yet immensely satisfying meal, perfect for a cozy lunch or a comforting dinner.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- This recipe serves 4 people.
- Each serving includes a bowl of tomato soup and one grilled cheese sandwich.
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fiber: 4 g
Ingredients
For the Tomato Soup
- Canned whole tomatoes: 800 g (28 oz)
- Onion, chopped: 1 medium
- Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
- Vegetable or chicken broth: 720 ml (3 cups)
- Heavy cream: 120 ml (1/2 cup)
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Sugar: 1 tsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Fresh basil: for garnish
For the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
- Sliced bread: 8 slices
- Cheddar cheese, sliced: 200 g (8 oz)
- Butter: 30 g (2 tbsp)
- Dijon mustard: optional
Method of Preparation
Make the Tomato Soup
- In a pot, heat olive oil. Sauté onions and garlic until soft.
- Add tomatoes, broth, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
- Blend until smooth, stir in cream, and heat through. Adjust seasonings.
Prepare the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
- Spread butter on one side of each bread slice. If desired, spread Dijon mustard on the other side.
- Place cheese between the unbuttered sides of the bread.
- In a skillet, cook sandwiches over medium heat until golden brown on both sides.
Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil.
- Cut the grilled cheese sandwiches in half and serve alongside the soup.
Tips for Culinary Success
- For a richer soup, add a splash of red wine during cooking.
- Use a blend of cheeses like Gouda or Swiss for a more gourmet grilled cheese.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup for a slight kick.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, though the soup may have a lighter flavor.
How can I store and reheat leftovers?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently. Sandwiches are best eaten fresh.
Can I add other ingredients to the grilled cheese?
Absolutely! Tomato, bacon, or avocado make great additions.