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The comforting combination of creamy tomato basil soup and perfectly grilled cheese sandwiches has stood the test of time as a quintessential dish that warms both the heart and the belly. This beloved pairing evokes memories of cozy family meals and rainy afternoons, making it a staple in many households. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of creating a mouthwatering Creamy Tomato Basil Delight Soup, paired with golden-brown Grilled Cheese sandwiches. Whether you're a novice cook or an experienced chef, you'll find that this recipe is accessible and satisfying, perfect for impressing family and friends alike.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Creamy Tomato Basil Delight Soup paired with crispy Grilled Cheese sandwiches. This delicious duo is not only a nostalgic staple but also easy to prepare for cooks of all skill levels. Discover the rich history behind these beloved dishes while exploring essential ingredients, nutritional benefits, and helpful cooking tips. Elevate your meal with customizable options and serve it beautifully for an unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy the warmth and flavor in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

For the Soup:

2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarians)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for sweetness)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for enhanced flavor)

For the Grilled Cheese:

4 slices of sourdough bread

4 slices of sharp cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics:

    In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, typically around 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently until fragrant.

      Add Tomatoes & Simmer:

        Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with the vegetable broth, dried oregano, and sugar (if using). Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for about 20 minutes. This allows for all the flavors to meld beautifully.

          Blend the Soup:

            After simmering, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. If you do not have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a standard blender in batches, blending until smooth, then return it to the pot.

              Add Cream & Basil:

                Stir the heavy cream into the blended soup and gently heat it over low heat. Add the chopped fresh basil and balsamic vinegar (if using) to enhance the flavor profile. Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt and pepper if necessary. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to warm through.

                  Prepare the Grilled Cheese:

                    While the soup is simmering, preheat a skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Generously spread the softened butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. Place two slices of bread in the skillet, butter side down. Top each slice with a piece of cheddar cheese, and cover with the remaining two slices of bread, butter side up.

                      Grill to Perfection:

                        Cook the grilled cheese sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder on the outer sides of the bread for an extra burst of flavor.

                          Serve:

                            Ladle the creamy tomato basil soup into bowls and slice the grilled cheese sandwiches diagonally. Serve them alongside the warm soup. Optionally, garnish the soup with additional fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and herbal aroma.

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

                                Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, consider drizzling some extra heavy cream on the soup before serving and placing a basil leaf on top. Enjoy your delightful meal!