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- 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes - 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth - 1 teaspoon sugar - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option - 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped - 2 tablespoons lemon juice - Salt and pepper to taste - 4 slices of sourdough bread or your choice of bread - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated (or alternative cheese)

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese

Warm up with a bowl of Hearty Creamy Tomato Basil Bliss, a comforting dish that combines rich, creamy tomato soup with golden grilled cheese sandwiches. This recipe highlights the use of fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques to create a nourishing meal perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a cozy night in or a quick lunch, this delightful dish will warm your soul and leave you craving more. Discover the joy of homemade cooking and savor every comforting spoonful.
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Ingredients
  

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian)

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Juice of 1/2 lemon

8 slices of bread (sourdough or your choice)

8 slices of cheese (sharp cheddar or your favorite cheese)

Butter for grilling

Instructions
 

Base Preparation: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Incorporate the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

    Adding Tomatoes and Flavoring: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the vegetable broth, sugar, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

      Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a rough simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

        Blend for Creaminess: After simmering, remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. (You can also transfer it in batches to a blender if you don’t have an immersion blender.)

          Creamy Finish: Return the blended soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream, chopped basil, and lemon juice. Continue to warm until the soup is hot but not boiling. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

            Grilled Cheese Time: While the soup is warming, butter one side of each slice of bread. Place one slice, butter side down, on a skillet over medium heat and layer two slices of cheese on top. Top with another slice of bread, butter side up. Grill until golden brown, flipping halfway through, about 3-4 minutes per side.

              Serve It Up: Once the grilled cheese is crispy and the soup is hot, pour the soup into bowls. Cut the grilled cheese into quarters and serve alongside the soup. For a gourmet touch, add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top of the soup.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings