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Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
Created by: Howcan Team
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices of bread
- 8 slices of cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons of butter
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches until smooth. Return the soup to the pot.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm over low heat while preparing the grilled cheese croutons.
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place 4 slices of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet. Top each slice with a slice of cheddar cheese. Place the remaining slices of bread on top, buttered side up.
- Cook the sandwiches for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a few minutes. Cut the sandwiches into small squares to create grilled cheese croutons.
- Ladle the creamy tomato basil soup into bowls and top with the grilled cheese croutons. Serve hot and enjoy!
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup has a rich history dating back to ancient Rome, where the combination of tomatoes and basil was first discovered. This classic soup has evolved over the centuries, with each region adding its own unique twist. In the 18th century, Italian chefs perfected the creamy texture by adding heavy cream, creating the beloved dish we know today. The addition of grilled cheese croutons takes this traditional soup to a whole new level. The croutons are made by grilling bite-sized pieces of cheese until they are crispy and golden brown, adding a delightful crunch and cheesy flavor to each spoonful. In modern times, renowned chefs like Ina Garten and Gordon Ramsay have popularized this indulgent twist on the classic soup, making it a staple in upscale restaurants and home kitchens alike. The best version of this dish can be found in cozy Italian trattorias, where the soup is made with ripe San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and a generous dollop of creamy mascarpone. To make the perfect Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with grilled cheese croutons, it's essential to use high-quality tomatoes and fresh basil for an authentic flavor. Additionally, choosing the right cheese for the croutons, such as sharp cheddar or gooey mozzarella, is crucial for achieving that irresistible cheesy goodness. For a famous alternative method, some chefs opt to blend the grilled cheese directly into the soup, creating a velvety, cheesy masterpiece. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal on a chilly evening or served as an elegant starter at a dinner party, Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with grilled cheese croutons is a timeless favorite that continues to delight food enthusiasts around the world.
45 min
4
320 calories
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