Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast

Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast

When the weather turns chilly, nothing compares to the comforting combination of tangy tomato soup and golden, cheesy onion toast. This classic pairing is easy to make, full of rich flavors, and perfect for warming your soul.

Ingredients

For the Tomato Soup:

• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
• Onion, diced: 1 medium
• Garlic cloves, minced: 2 cloves
• Crushed tomatoes (canned): 28 oz
• Vegetable broth: 3 cups
• Tomato paste: 1 tablespoon
• Sugar (optional, to balance acidity): 1 teaspoon
• Basil: ½ teaspoon dried or 1 tablespoon fresh
• Thyme (optional): ½ teaspoon dried
• Heavy cream or milk (optional): ½ cup
• Salt and pepper: To taste

For the Cheese and Onion Toast:

• Onion, thinly sliced: 2 small
• Crusty bread slices: 4
• Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup
• Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Tomato Soup

Aromatic Base

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Building the Flavor

4. Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, tomato paste, basil, and thyme (if using).
5. Taste the soup; if it’s too acidic, add the sugar. Stir well to combine.

Simmer and Blend

6. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. For a smooth soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or blend in batches in a blender.
8. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream or milk after blending.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Preparing the Cheese and Onion Toast

Preheat the Broiler

1. Set your oven’s broiler to high.

Assemble the Toast

2. Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet.
3. Top each slice with thinly sliced onion and a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese.

Broil to Perfection

4. Place the baking sheet under the broiler. Broil for 3–5 minutes, watching closely to ensure the cheese melts and bubbles into a golden brown crust.

3. Serving the Dish

Plate the Soup and Toast

1. Ladle the hot tomato soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired.
2. Serve the cheese and onion toast alongside the soup, either as a side or partially dipped for a satisfying presentation.

Tips for Success

• Customize the Cheese: Try using Gruyère, mozzarella, or a sharp cheddar blend for extra flavor.
• Adjust Texture: For a chunkier soup, skip blending and enjoy the hearty texture of the vegetables.
• Pair It Up: Add a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to make it a complete meal.

This Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast is a classic dish that’s easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this combo is guaranteed to impress!