Homemade Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese
Ingredients:
Tomato Soup:
- 5-6 ripe tomatoes
- 1 purple onion
- 1-2 heads of garlic
- Olive oil (enough to coat the vegetables)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tablespoon oregano or Italian spices
- 1/2 cup vegetable stock
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (or to taste)
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:
- Slices of your favorite bread (e.g., sourdough, whole grain)
- Butter (softened, for spreading)
- Cheese slices (e.g., cheddar, provolone, Swiss)
- Optional: garlic powder for extra flavor
Directions:
For the Tomato Soup:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C).
- Wash the tomatoes and cut them into quarters.
- Peel the purple onion and cut it into large chunks.
- Peel the garlic cloves from the head(s) of garlic, leaving them whole.
- Roast the Vegetables:
- Arrange the tomato quarters, onion chunks, and garlic cloves on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle generously with olive oil, ensuring all vegetables are well-coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized.
- Blend the Soup:
- Once the vegetables are roasted, transfer them to a blender or food processor.
- Add 1/2 tablespoon of oregano or Italian spices.
- Pour in 1/2 cup of vegetable stock.
- Blend until smooth.
- Finish the Soup:
- Pour the blended mixture into a large pot.
- Heat the soup over medium heat.
- Gradually add 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream, stirring constantly. You can adjust the amount of cream to your taste, adding more if you prefer a creamier soup.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
- Continue to heat the soup until it’s warmed through, but do not let it boil.
For the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Lay out your bread slices on a clean surface.
- Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of bread.
- Place cheese slices between two slices of bread, with the buttered sides facing outward.
- Optionally, sprinkle a little garlic powder on the buttered sides for extra flavor.
- Grill the Sandwiches:
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet.
- Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side. Press down lightly with a spatula to ensure even cooking and melting.
- Remove from the skillet and let cool slightly before cutting.
- Serve:
- Ladle the hot tomato soup into bowls.
- Serve alongside the grilled cheese sandwiches for dipping.
Tips:
- Blending: For a smoother soup, strain the blended mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any remaining solids.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses for the grilled cheese sandwiches, such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack, to suit your taste.
- Vegetable Stock: You can use chicken stock or even water if you prefer a lighter soup.
- Garnish: Add a dollop of sour cream, fresh basil leaves, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to the soup for extra flavor and presentation.
This homemade tomato soup and grilled cheese combination is comforting, delicious, and perfect for a cozy night in! Enjoy!
Benefits of Homemade Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese
1. Nutritional Value:
- Fresh Ingredients: By using fresh tomatoes, onions, and garlic, you’re ensuring that the soup is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil is a healthy fat, providing monounsaturated fats that can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease.
- High Fiber: The vegetables in the soup contribute dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a healthy gut.
2. Customizable and Dietary Flexibility:
- Adjustable Ingredients: You can adjust the ingredients to cater to various dietary needs. For instance, use low-sodium vegetable stock for a heart-healthy version, or opt for a dairy-free cream substitute to make it vegan.
- Gluten-Free Option: Simply use gluten-free bread for the grilled cheese if you need a gluten-free meal.
3. Cost-Effective:
- Affordable Ingredients: The ingredients used in this recipe are relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to store-bought soups and sandwiches or dining out. This makes it a budget-friendly meal option for families.
- Homemade Advantage: Making these items at home allows you to control the portion sizes and ingredient quality, ensuring better value for your money.
4. Convenience and Batch Cooking:
- Meal Prep Friendly: Both the soup and grilled cheese sandwiches can be made in large batches. The soup can be refrigerated or frozen for future meals, and the sandwiches can be assembled in advance and cooked when needed.
- Quick and Easy: Despite being homemade, this meal doesn’t require extensive cooking skills or time. Roasting the vegetables and blending the soup is straightforward, and the grilled cheese sandwiches can be prepared in minutes.
5. Comfort Food:
- Warm and Satisfying: This combination of creamy tomato soup and crispy, gooey grilled cheese is a classic comfort food that is perfect for cold weather or when you need a comforting, homey meal.
- Nostalgic: Many people have fond memories of eating tomato soup and grilled cheese as a child, making this meal emotionally satisfying as well.
6. Kid-Friendly:
- Appeals to Picky Eaters: The simple, familiar flavors of tomato soup and grilled cheese are generally well-liked by children, making it an easy way to get them to eat more vegetables.
- Fun to Make Together: This recipe can be a fun cooking project to do with kids, helping them to develop kitchen skills and a love for cooking.
7. Versatility:
- Flavor Variations: You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the soup for a tangy twist, or include different herbs and spices to change the flavor profile.
- Pairings: The soup can be paired with a variety of grilled cheese sandwiches, from classic cheddar to more adventurous options like brie and apple, allowing for endless meal possibilities.
By preparing this homemade tomato soup and grilled cheese meal, you are not only enjoying a delicious and comforting dish but also reaping a multitude of health, financial, and practical benefits.
Q&A: Homemade Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese
Q1: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
A1: Yes, you can substitute canned tomatoes for fresh tomatoes. Use a 28-ounce can of whole peeled tomatoes or crushed tomatoes. Just ensure you roast the onion and garlic as per the recipe to maintain the depth of flavor.
Q2: How can I make this recipe vegan?
A2: To make this recipe vegan, use a plant-based cream (such as coconut cream or cashew cream) instead of heavy whipping cream, and opt for a vegan cheese for the grilled cheese sandwiches. Additionally, ensure the bread and butter you use are also vegan.
Q3: Can I make the soup ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! The tomato soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Q4: What can I use if I don’t have a blender?
A4: If you don’t have a blender, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot or a food processor. Alternatively, you can use a potato masher for a chunkier texture.
Q5: How do I keep the grilled cheese sandwiches warm and crispy if making for a crowd?
A5: To keep grilled cheese sandwiches warm and crispy, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer in a 200°F (90°C) oven. This will keep them warm without making them soggy.
Q6: What other cheeses can I use for the grilled cheese sandwiches?
A6: You can use any cheese that melts well. Popular options include mozzarella, gouda, Monterey Jack, or a combination of different cheeses. Experiment to find your favorite blend.
Q7: Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
A7: Yes, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or celery. Roast them along with the tomatoes, onion, and garlic for added flavor and nutrients.
Q8: What can I serve with this meal besides grilled cheese?
A8: This tomato soup pairs well with a variety of sides such as a simple green salad, croutons, or a slice of crusty bread. You could also serve it with other types of sandwiches or even a cheese quesadilla.
Q9: Is there a lower-calorie option for the heavy whipping cream?
A9: For a lower-calorie option, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or even a dairy-free milk substitute like almond milk or soy milk. Keep in mind that these substitutions might result in a slightly less creamy texture.
Q10: How do I store leftovers?
A10: Store leftover tomato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The grilled cheese sandwiches are best eaten fresh, but you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat in a skillet or toaster oven.
These Q&A responses should help address any common questions or concerns you might have while preparing this homemade tomato soup and grilled cheese meal!