Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons 🍅🧀

Warm up your soul with this comforting and delicious soup that will remind you of cozy nights at home. Perfect for a chilly day, this creamy tomato basil soup is served with crispy grilled cheese croutons for an extra touch of indulgence.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cans of diced tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Sourdough bread
• Cheddar cheese
• Butter

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
2. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes.
3. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate pan, butter one side of sourdough bread and add cheddar cheese. Cook until cheese is melted and bread is crispy.
5. Serve the soup hot with grilled cheese croutons on top and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy!

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Make sure to peel and chop them before adding to the soup.

• Q: Can I use a different type of cheese for the croutons?

A: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for the croutons like mozzarella or gouda.

• Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

A: Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

• Q: How long will the soup last in the fridge?

A: The soup can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

• Q: Can I freeze this soup?

A: Yes, you can freeze the soup without the cream and add it when reheating for best results.

• Q: Is this soup vegetarian?

A: Yes, this soup is vegetarian-friendly using vegetable broth and no meat products.

• Q: Can I make this soup vegan?

A: You can substitute heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a vegan version.

• Q: Can I add other herbs to the soup?

A: Feel free to add other herbs like oregano or thyme for additional flavor.

• Q: Can I use gluten-free bread for the croutons?

A: Yes, you can use gluten-free bread to make the grilled cheese croutons.

• Q: Can I add some heat to the soup?

A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick to the soup.

Helpful tips:

• Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top of the soup for a tangy finish.
• Garnish the soup with a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.
• For a healthier version, use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream.
• Roast the tomatoes before adding them to the soup for a richer flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top of the croutons for extra cheesy goodness.
• For a vegan version, use vegan cheese for the croutons or skip them altogether.
• Drizzle some pesto on the croutons for a burst of herbaceous flavor.
• Serve the soup with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
• For a heartier soup, add cooked pasta or rice to the broth.
• Experiment with different herbs like parsley or chives for a unique twist on the soup.

Expert Secrets:

• Use fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra smoky flavor in the soup.
• Cook the onions until caramelized for a deeper sweetness in the soup.
• Blend half of the soup for a chunkier texture with bursts of tomato and basil.
• For a creamy finish, add a dollop of mascarpone cheese to the soup before serving.
• Grill the cheese croutons on a griddle for a crispy exterior and gooey interior.
• Top the soup with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor.
• Infuse the soup with additional flavors like smoked paprika or dried thyme for complexity.
• Garnish the soup with micro basil leaves for a delicate touch of freshness.
• For a luxurious twist, add a splash of sherry or red wine vinegar to the soup before blending.
• Experiment with different bread types for the croutons like rye or multigrain for unique textures.