Frederic Melton
Grilled cheese and tomato soup is a classic comfort food combination. It's a simple, tasty meal that can be made with ingredients most people already have in their homes. However, the traditional recipe may not be the healthiest option. The good news is that there are ways to make this dish healthier without sacrificing taste. For example, you can replace processed white bread with whole grains and use low-fat or vegan cheese. You can also omit the butter and cream typically used in the soup and sandwich. By making a few small changes, you can enjoy this delicious meal without compromising your health.
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What You'll Learn
- Healthy alternatives: whole grain bread, low-fat cheese, no butter or cream
- Calorie count: grilled cheese and tomato soup can be made to be under 350 calories
- Nutrition: a balanced meal with protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals
- Comfort food: a warm, filling meal that evokes feelings of home and comfort
- Recipe: a simple, quick meal that can be made in under 30 minutes
Healthy alternatives: whole grain bread, low-fat cheese, no butter or cream
Grilled cheese and tomato soup is a classic comfort food, but it can be made healthier with a few simple substitutions.
One way to make the dish healthier is to choose whole grain bread instead of processed white bread. Whole grain bread is a good source of dietary fiber and nutrients, and it can help to increase the feeling of fullness after eating. By lightly toasting the bread before assembling the sandwich, you can also reduce the amount of butter needed to grill the sandwich, as suggested by one source.
When it comes to the cheese, opting for a low-fat variety can reduce the overall calorie count of the meal without sacrificing taste. Cheddar cheese, for example, has a strong flavour that can enhance the sandwich, even when used in smaller quantities.
Finally, eliminating butter and cream from the tomato soup can make a significant difference in its nutritional profile. The soup can be made creamy using healthier alternatives like coconut milk or blended grilled potatoes. Blending the soup also eliminates the need for butter, as it creates a smooth and creamy texture without the addition of fat.
By making these simple swaps, you can enjoy a healthier version of grilled cheese and tomato soup that still tastes delicious and satisfies your comfort food cravings.
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Calorie count: grilled cheese and tomato soup can be made to be under 350 calories
Grilled cheese and tomato soup is a classic comfort food, but it can be high in calories. However, with a few simple tweaks, it can be made healthier without sacrificing taste. Here are some tips to keep the calorie count under 350:
First, let's look at the grilled cheese sandwich. Instead of using processed white bread, opt for whole grains. This increases the dietary fiber and protein content while reducing calories. You can also reduce the amount of butter used by grilling the sandwich on a non-stick pan or grill, such as an ElectriChef Grill. Alternatively, you can lightly toast the bread before making the sandwich, drying and slightly crisping the surface. This will help reduce the amount of butter needed and prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy.
When it comes to cheese, choose a low-fat variety or vegan cheese. Using a combination of mustard and cheddar cheese can also enhance the flavour while reducing calories. Adding herbs like basil and spices like black pepper can also boost the flavour without adding extra fat or calories.
Now, for the tomato soup. To keep the calorie count down, avoid using butter or cream. Instead, opt for low-fat or plant-based alternatives, such as coconut milk. You can also add grilled potatoes to the soup for a thicker consistency without adding significant calories. Use ripe, seasonal tomatoes or canned whole tomatoes for the best flavour. San Marzano tomatoes or any good-quality Italian variety are excellent choices.
Finally, consider serving the soup with a side salad or grilled vegetables to boost your nutrient intake and add fibre. With these modifications, you can enjoy a comforting grilled cheese and tomato soup meal while keeping the calorie count under control.
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Nutrition: a balanced meal with protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals
Grilled cheese and tomato soup is a classic comfort food, but can it be part of a balanced meal with protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals? The answer is yes, with a few modifications.
First, let's look at the traditional recipe. The soup is typically made with ripe tomatoes, olive oil, onions, garlic, basil, and other herbs, creating a blend of vitamins and minerals. The grilled cheese sandwich is usually made with white bread, butter, and cheddar or mozzarella cheese, providing protein and fat.
Now, to make it healthier, we can focus on increasing the nutritional value while maintaining the delicious taste. Here are some suggestions:
- Whole grains: Replace processed white bread with whole-grain bread, which has more fibre and nutrients.
- Cheese alternatives: Try low-fat or vegan cheese options to reduce the overall fat content without sacrificing protein.
- Skip the butter: Instead of buttering the bread, grill the sandwich to achieve a similar toasted effect without the added fat.
- Cream alternatives: Omit the cream from the soup to reduce fat and calories. You can replace it with coconut milk or blended potatoes for a similar creamy texture.
- Vegetable boost: Add more vegetables to the soup, such as blended potatoes or roasted vegetables, for extra fibre and vitamins.
- Herbs and spices: Enhance the flavour with herbs and spices like basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes, which provide antioxidants and additional flavour without relying on high-fat ingredients.
By making these adjustments, you can create a healthier version of grilled cheese and tomato soup that still satisfies your comfort food cravings. This modified meal will provide a good balance of protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals while being mindful of fat and calorie content.
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Comfort food: a warm, filling meal that evokes feelings of home and comfort
Few meals evoke feelings of home and comfort as much as a grilled cheese sandwich with a bowl of creamy tomato soup. This classic combination is a simple, delicious, and comforting meal that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
The grilled cheese and tomato soup combination is a popular choice for a quick and easy lunch or a weeknight meal. It is a simple recipe that can be made with ingredients commonly found in most homes. The warmth and creaminess of the soup, paired with the melted cheese and toasted bread of the sandwich, create a comforting and indulgent eating experience.
While the traditional recipe is already quite comforting, there are several ways to make it even more so. One way is to add a swirl of cream and fresh basil to the soup, elevating it to a more sophisticated version of the childhood favourite. Another way to enhance the comfort factor is to use smoked cheeses and prosciutto ham in the grilled cheese sandwich, taking the classic combination to the next level.
For those who prefer a healthier version of this comfort food, there are some simple modifications that can be made. Replacing processed white bread with whole grains and reducing the amount of butter or cream in the soup can increase the nutritional value while still maintaining the comforting flavours. Using low-fat or vegan cheese is another option for those who want a lighter version of the classic grilled cheese.
Whether enjoyed as a simple lunch, a family dinner, or a comforting weeknight meal, the grilled cheese and tomato soup combination is a versatile and satisfying option. It is a meal that evokes a sense of warmth and comfort, perfect for those days when you crave something familiar and indulgent.
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Recipe: a simple, quick meal that can be made in under 30 minutes
A grilled cheese and tomato soup is a simple, quick meal that can be made in under 30 minutes. It is a classic comfort food that is perfect for a rainy day or a quick lunch. Here is a recipe for a simple, delicious, and relatively healthy grilled cheese and tomato soup.
Ingredients:
- Tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Salt
- Sugar
- Basil
- Garlic
- Onion
- Bread
- Butter
- Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
Tomato Soup Instructions:
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C. Place your tomatoes in a roasting tray and add the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, sugar, and salt. Stir to combine and then place in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and starting to caramelize.
Next, heat some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your garlic and onion and cook until soft. Add the roasted tomatoes and any juices from the roasting tray to the pot, along with some tomato paste and stock or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Finally, blend the soup until smooth, either using an immersion blender or by transferring it to a blender. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and add a swirl of cream or sour cream if desired.
Grilled Cheese Instructions:
To make the grilled cheese, start by mixing your cheeses. You can use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella, or just cheddar. Spread your cheese mixture on a slice of bread and top with another slice to make a sandwich. Butter both sides of the sandwich generously.
Place the sandwich in a non-stick pan over medium heat and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. If you want to get fancy, you can lightly toast the bread before adding the cheese, or try making two open-face sandwiches and melting them under the broiler before putting them together.
Serving:
Serve the grilled cheese sandwich with a bowl of the tomato soup. If desired, you can add some croutons or creme fraiche to the soup for extra texture and creaminess. Enjoy!
Healthier Alternatives:
This recipe can be made healthier by using whole grain bread instead of white bread, and reducing the amount of butter used. You can also omit the cream in the soup, and use low-fat or vegan cheese for the sandwich.
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Frequently asked questions
Grilled cheese and tomato soup can be healthy when made with the right ingredients. For example, you can replace processed white bread and butter with whole grains and olive oil. You can also add vegetables like spinach, onions, or peppers, and herbs like basil or parsley to increase the nutritional value of the meal.
To make a healthier version of grilled cheese and tomato soup, you can try using whole grain bread, plant-based toppings, and a healthy fat like avocado oil or olive oil instead of butter. For the soup, you can make it from scratch using fresh tomatoes, herbs, and vegetables, and avoid adding cream to reduce the fat content.
Grilled cheese and tomato soup can provide a range of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and protein. Cheese is a good source of riboflavin, vitamin B12, folate, vitamin A, and niacin. The soup can also be a good source of vitamin C and potassium if made with fire-roasted tomatoes.
