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To make a rich and tasty soup, you need: - 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped - 1 cup vegetable broth - 1/2 cup heavy cream - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed Ripe tomatoes give the soup its sweet and tangy flavor. The fresh basil adds a lovely aroma. Heavy cream makes the soup creamy and smooth. Vegetable broth adds depth to the taste. For the perfect grilled cheese, gather: - 4 slices of artisan bread - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 2 tablespoons butter Artisan bread holds the cheese well and gives a nice crunch. Mozzarella melts beautifully and adds richness. Butter helps achieve a golden crust. For seasoning, you'll need: - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Olive oil is not just for cooking; it adds a hint of fruity taste to the soup. For the full recipe, check out Creamy Tomato Basil Bliss. First, I heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Next, I add the chopped onion. I sauté it for about 5 minutes until it turns soft and clear. Then, I mix in the minced garlic, cooking it for another 1-2 minutes. I watch closely to avoid burning it. After that, I add the chopped tomatoes and vegetable broth. I bring the mix to a simmer. I let it cook for 15-20 minutes. This helps the tomatoes soften and release their flavors. Once the soup is ready, I remove the pot from heat. I let it cool slightly before adding in the fresh basil leaves. Then, I use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If I don’t have an immersion blender, I can blend in batches using a regular blender. After blending, I return the soup to the pot. I stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. I heat it gently over low heat until warm. While the soup simmers, I prepare the grilled cheese sandwiches. First, I butter one side of each slice of artisan bread. Then, I place one slice, butter-side down, on a skillet over medium heat. I sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top. I cover it with the second slice of bread, butter-side up. I grill the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes on each side. I aim for golden brown bread and melted cheese. After grilling, I slice the sandwich into triangles. I now have a comforting meal to enjoy with my soup. For the full recipe, check out the details above. To get that creamy texture in your soup, blend it well. I suggest using an immersion blender. It makes everything smooth right in the pot. If you don't have one, a regular blender works too. Just be careful with hot liquids. Blend small amounts at a time to avoid spills. For the best grilled cheese, use medium heat. This helps the bread toast evenly. Butter one side of the bread well. This gives you that golden crust you want. To keep cheese from sticking, use a non-stick skillet. Also, cover the pan with a lid while grilling. This keeps the heat in and melts the cheese fast. Garnishing your soup makes it more inviting. I like to add a few fresh basil leaves on top. A drizzle of olive oil adds flavor and looks nice too. For sides, a simple green salad pairs well. If you enjoy wine, a light white wine complements the soup's flavors perfectly. Try the full recipe for a delightful experience! {{image_2}} You can change the taste of your creamy tomato basil soup easily. Adding spices like paprika gives it a warm kick. If you like heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. They add a nice touch. You can also use different herbs. Thyme and oregano work well for a new flavor. These simple changes can brighten your soup. Grilled cheese can be just as fun to play with. Try mixing cheeses for a new twist. A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella will melt beautifully. You can also try vegan cheese if you want a dairy-free option. If you need gluten-free bread, there are many tasty options now. These changes let you enjoy grilled cheese in different ways. You can switch the broth in your soup for a new taste. If you prefer chicken broth, it adds a rich flavor. You can also make the soup dairy-free. Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream. These swaps keep the soup creamy while changing the taste. Each option gives you a chance to explore new flavors. For the full recipe, check out Creamy Tomato Basil Bliss! To keep your creamy tomato basil soup fresh, follow these steps: - Let the soup cool to room temperature. - Pour it into an airtight container. - Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. - For longer storage, freeze it. - Use freezer-safe containers or bags. - It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. You have two easy ways to reheat your soup: - Microwave: Pour the soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a lid or a paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. - Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot. Heat over medium-low heat. Stir often until hot, about 5-7 minutes. Grilled cheese sandwiches can lose their crunch. Here’s how to store them: - Wrap each sandwich in foil or parchment paper. - Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. - For reheating, use a skillet over medium heat. - Heat each side for about 3-4 minutes. This keeps them crispy. - Avoid the microwave; it makes them soggy. This way, you can enjoy the creamy tomato basil soup and grilled cheese over a few days without losing their great taste. For the full recipe, check the section above! Creamy tomato basil soup lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container for best results. I always suggest labeling the container with the date to track freshness. Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day! Prepare the soup and cool it before storing. Reheat it gently on the stove before serving. I love serving this soup with grilled cheese sandwiches. You can also pair it with a simple salad or crusty bread. These sides add texture and balance to the meal. To make a vegan version, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. Use vegetable broth as your base. For cheese, try vegan cheese or skip it altogether. The soup will still taste great! Absolutely! Canned tomatoes work well in this recipe. Choose whole or diced tomatoes for the best flavor. Drain excess liquid to keep the soup from getting too watery. You now have a complete guide to making creamy tomato basil soup and grilled cheese. First, we explored key ingredients and how they come together. Next, I shared step-by-step instructions for both dishes. I included tips for perfect texture and flavor variations for your taste. Storing your leftovers properly helps them stay fresh. Overall, these recipes are simple yet satisfying. Enjoy your comforting meal, and don’t hesitate to experiment!

31. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese

Indulge in the rich flavors of creamy tomato basil bliss! This delicious recipe combines ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream for a simple yet satisfying soup that's perfect for any day. Pair it with gooey grilled cheese sandwiches for the ultimate comfort meal. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s time to warm your heart and home. Click to explore this recipe and elevate your lunch game today!
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Ingredients
  

4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped

1 cup vegetable broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

4 slices of artisan bread

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

2 tablespoons butter

Instructions
 

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

    Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.

      Add the chopped tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until the tomatoes are soft and bubbly.

        Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly. Add the fresh basil leaves to the pot.

          Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy (alternatively, transfer in batches to a blender).

            Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat gently over low heat until warmed through.

              While the soup is simmering, prepare the grilled cheese sandwiches. Butter one side of each slice of artisan bread.

                Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, on a skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top, then cover with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.

                  Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese melts. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make a second sandwich.

                    Once the grilled cheese is ready, slice the sandwich into triangles.

                      Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 40 mins | Servings: 2

                        - Presentation Tips: Serve the creamy tomato basil soup in bowls garnished with a few extra basil leaves, accompanied by the grilled cheese sandwiches on the side. Drizzle a little olive oil over the soup for extra flavor and visual appeal.