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Cozy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe with Crispy Grilled Cheese Croutons

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A quick and comforting tomato basil soup paired with crispy, melty grilled cheese croutons, perfect for cozy dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cans (28 ounces each) whole peeled tomatoes (San Marzano recommended)
  • 3 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed, chopped (reserve a few whole leaves for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the grilled cheese croutons:
  • 4 slices sourdough bread
  • 4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent and lightly golden.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  3. Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juices. Break them up slightly with a spoon if you prefer chunkier texture. Add the vegetable broth and stir well.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. While the soup simmers, prepare the grilled cheese croutons: butter one side of each bread slice evenly. Heat a skillet over medium heat, place one slice butter-side-down, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, then cover with another bread slice butter-side-up. Press gently and cook 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
  6. Remove grilled cheese sandwiches from skillet and let cool slightly. Cut into bite-sized cubes for croutons.
  7. Remove soup from heat and add chopped fresh basil. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth but still slightly textured.
  8. Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Return to low heat for 5 minutes to warm through.
  9. Serve hot with a generous handful of grilled cheese croutons on top and garnish with whole basil leaves.

Notes

Add a splash of balsamic vinegar after blending to brighten flavor. Butter the bread well and cook grilled cheese on medium heat to get perfect crispiness. Salt gradually in stages for layered flavor. For dairy-free, use coconut milk and vegan cheese; for gluten-free, use gluten-free bread.

Nutrition

Keywords: tomato basil soup, grilled cheese croutons, cozy soup, quick soup recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, vegetarian soup

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/cozy-tomato-basil-soup-recipe-with-crispy-grilled-cheese-croutons-easy-and-perfect/