Introduction
Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the warmth of rich, velvety tomato soup with the crispy, savory flavor of melted cheese and caramelized onion on toast.
It is the perfect meal for any season, whether you’re looking for something soothing on a chilly evening or a quick, satisfying lunch.
The combination of fresh tomatoes, herbs, and the crispy texture of the cheese and onion toast elevates this simple dish to something special.
Ingredients
For the tomato soup, you will need ripe tomatoes, onion, garlic, vegetable stock, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
You may also want to add a few fresh herbs like basil or thyme to enhance the flavor. For the cheese and onion toast.
you will need a good quality bread, cheese (cheddar works great), butter, and onions.
Instructions
Start by preparing the soup. Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add finely chopped onions and garlic.
Sauté until the onions become translucent and aromatic. Add in the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices.
Then, pour in vegetable stock, season with salt and pepper, and add any herbs you are using. Bring the mixture to a boil.
then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes to meld the flavors together.
While the soup simmers, prepare the cheese and onion toast. Slice the bread into thick pieces, then spread butter on one side of each slice.
In a separate pan, sauté thinly sliced onions with a bit of butter until they are golden and caramelized. Once done.
set them aside. Preheat your broiler, and place the buttered bread slices on a baking sheet. Top each slice with the caramelized onions and a generous layer of cheese.
Place the baking sheet under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
Once the soup has finished simmering, blend it using an immersion blender until smooth, or transfer it to a blender in batches. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
How to Make
To assemble the dish, ladle the hot tomato soup into bowls, ensuring it’s piping hot. Then, carefully place a piece of the cheesy, onion-laden toast into the soup, or serve it on the side for dipping.
The contrast of hot soup and crispy toast creates the ideal balance of comfort. You can garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or thyme, for an added burst of freshness.
For those who prefer extra creaminess, adding a splash of cream or milk to the soup before serving can enhance the texture.
For an added twist, consider roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the soup. This caramelizes their natural sugars and intensifies the flavor, adding a rich depth to your soup.
Similarly, if you want a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or use fewer liquids, while for a thinner soup, simply add a bit more stock.
Be sure to make the cheese and onion toast crispy enough so that it holds up to the soup’s texture, but not so crunchy that it’s hard to break through with a spoon.
It’s important that the toast soaks up the soup just enough to make each bite a delicious combination of both.
For added flavor, you can experiment with different types of cheese. A sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or even a blend of cheeses can be used to create your perfect cheese toast.
The key is finding a cheese that melts well and complements the tomato soup’s acidity.
Tips
One great tip when making tomato soup is to use a mix of different types of tomatoes, such as Roma and heirloom tomatoes.
This adds complexity and richness to the soup’s flavor profile. Additionally, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are out of season or not available.
If you prefer a creamier tomato soup, adding a bit of heavy cream or milk during the final stages of simmering.
will give the soup a velvety finish. Another option is to add a spoonful of cream cheese or mascarpone for richness and a smooth texture.
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small amount of balsamic vinegar to the soup as it cooks.
This will enhance the overall taste and add a slight sweetness that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
When making the cheese and onion toast, consider using a crusty, rustic bread, such as sourdough or baguette.
for extra texture and flavor. It will hold up better under the cheese and onions and absorb the soup without falling apart too quickly.
If you’re making the dish ahead of time, the soup can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days, and the cheese and onion.
toast can be reheated in the oven or broiler before serving to retain its crispness. Just make sure to store the soup and toast separately to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
To make the soup even more indulgent, try adding a spoonful of pesto or a drizzle of olive oil on top before serving. It adds a fresh, herbal note that enhances the flavors of the dish.
For those who like extra crunch, you can add croutons or even a sprinkle of roasted seeds or nuts to the soup just before serving. It will add an additional texture contrast and make the dish feel more substantial.
Conclusion
Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast is a simple yet satisfying meal that brings together fresh ingredients, rich flavors, and a balance of textures.
It’s perfect for cozying up on a cold day or when you’re craving a comforting meal. The creamy soup pairs perfectly with the crispy, cheesy toast, making every bite a delightful experience.
This dish is easily customizable to suit your tastes, and it is a great way to enjoy a classic combination of flavors with a modern twist.
Whether you choose to add extra seasonings, experiment with different cheeses, or make the soup even creamier, it’s a dish that will never disappoint.