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- 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 medium onion, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) crushed tomatoes - 3 cups vegetable broth - 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped - 4 slices sourdough or whole grain bread - 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese - Salt and pepper to taste

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese

Experience the ultimate comfort food with the Tomato Bliss & Cheese Melt Delight recipe! This heartwarming dish features a creamy tomato basil soup paired with gooey grilled cheese sandwiches, perfect for any meal. Easy to prepare, it brings together rich flavors and textures that will delight families and food lovers alike. Whether for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch, this recipe is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Enjoy the nostalgia of this classic combination!

Ingredients
  

For the Creamy Tomato Basil Soup:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cans (14 oz each) crushed tomatoes

2 cups vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream

1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth of flavor)

For the Grilled Cheese:

8 slices of sourdough or whole grain bread

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

8 slices (8 oz) cheddar or mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Soup:

    - In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent.

      - Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.

        - Add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot, stirring well to combine. If desired, add the optional sugar along with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for approximately 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

          Blend the Soup:

            - Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. Alternatively, if you’re using a traditional blender, blend in batches, being cautious with the hot liquid.

              - Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream). Gently heat the soup until warm, then add the chopped basil and balsamic vinegar, stirring until everything is well incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

                Prepare the Grilled Cheese:

                  - As the soup simmers, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread.

                    - Place four slices of bread, butter-side down, onto the skillet. Layer two slices of cheese on each, then add the remaining bread slices on top, butter-side up.

                      - Grill the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping carefully to ensure even cooking. Continue grilling until the cheese is melted and gooey.

                        Serve:

                          - Ladle the creamy tomato basil soup into individual bowls, garnishing with additional fresh basil if desired. Slice the grilled cheese sandwiches diagonally for easy dipping, and serve them alongside the bowls of soup or perched atop for a comforting presentation.

                            Enjoy:

                              - Indulge in the warm, satisfying embrace of your homemade creamy tomato basil soup, perfectly accompanied by your golden grilled cheese!

                                Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 45 min | Servings: 4

                                  - Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, you might drizzle a bit of olive oil on top of the soup and add a sprig of basil as a garnish. Serve the grilled cheese on a cutting board for a rustic touch!