The Perfect Pairing: Grilled Cheese's Best Companions

There are endless options to pair with a grilled cheese sandwich. The classic pairing is the grilled cheese and tomato soup combination, but there are many other options to choose from. For example, you could try a salad such as spinach salad, Caesar salad, or a simple green salad. If you're looking for something a little more indulgent, you could try French fries, sweet potato fries, or onion rings. For a healthier option, opt for roasted carrots and asparagus, sautéed green beans, or fresh fruit.

Tomato Soup

There's nothing quite like a classic grilled cheese sandwich. But what about its long-time companion, tomato soup? Here are some reasons why tomato soup is the perfect pairing for your grilled cheese sandwich:

Classic Combination

First and foremost, you can't deny that grilled cheese and tomato soup are a dynamic duo. They are a match made in comfort food heaven! The warm, gooey cheese sandwich dipped into a bowl of hot, tangy tomato soup—it's a combination that has stood the test of time for a reason.

Balance of Flavours

Customisation

While the classic version is a favourite, there are endless ways to customise your tomato soup to elevate your grilled cheese experience. Try a creamy tomato bisque, a chilled heirloom tomato gazpacho, or a roasted fennel and white bean tomato soup. Add some spice or herbs to kick it up a notch. The possibilities are endless!

Easy to Make

Like grilled cheese, tomato soup is a breeze to prepare. Whether you go for a simple canned version or whip up a batch from scratch, it's a quick and easy side dish to accompany your sandwich. Make a big batch and freeze it for those days when only grilled cheese and tomato soup will do!

Crowd-Pleaser

Whether you're feeding a crowd or just yourself, grilled cheese and tomato soup are sure to satisfy. It's a combination that works for all ages and tastes. So, the next time you're craving a grilled cheese, don't forget its trusty sidekick—tomato soup! It's a classic for a reason.

Salads

If you're looking for a simple salad to pair with your grilled cheese, a classic Caesar salad is always a good option. It combines crisp vegetables, crunchy croutons, and tangy Parmesan cheese, all tossed in a creamy dressing. You can also add grilled chicken to make it a more substantial meal.

For a more refreshing option, try a Greek salad. This salad typically includes fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions, paired with kalamata olives and feta cheese. The salty and tangy feta complements the crisp vegetables perfectly.

If you're looking for something heartier, a loaded chicken salad or a broccoli salad with bacon and cheese can be a great option. These salads offer a balance of protein and vegetables, with the added sharpness and depth of flavor from cheese and bacon bits.

You can also experiment with different types of cheeses in your salad to elevate the dish. Goat cheese, for example, pairs well with roasted beets, while blue cheese complements the sweetness of roasted butternut squash. Feta cheese is a classic addition to Mediterranean-style salads, like Greek salad or Israeli salad.

So, the next time you're enjoying a grilled cheese sandwich, consider pairing it with a delicious and nutritious salad. Whether you choose a simple side salad or a more elaborate creation, the combination of melted cheese and fresh vegetables is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Fruit

Cherries

Tart cherries are the perfect choice for grilled cheese, adding a punch of tangy and sweet flavours without overwhelming the sandwich with too much sweetness. Amarella and Morello cherries, ranging from yellow to red, offer delightful notes of tart sugars that will complement the cheese beautifully. Pair them with gouda, sharp cheddar, or pecorino for a flavourful experience.

Apples

Apples and cheddar cheese is a classic combination, especially for Vermonters who love their sharp, white, aged cheddar. Layer thinly sliced apples with cheddar and bread, and pan-fry in unsalted butter or mayonnaise for a delicious treat. Granny Smith apples will give a tarter flavour, while Honeycrisp apples add sweeter notes. For those who prefer a milder cheese, Brie is a perfect match with its soft, buttery, nutty characteristics.

Figs

Fresh figs may be hard to come by, but they are worth seeking out for their unique flavour and crunchy seeds. Figs have notes of currants, strawberries, and dates, making them incredibly sweet. Pair them with ricotta or burrata to keep things mellow, or use a tart cheese like chevre to play up the contrast. Don't forget to add a touch of Parmesan Reggiano for that extra salty-sweet kick.

Peaches

Grilled peaches are a fantastic addition to a grilled cheese sandwich, especially when paired with mozzarella, smoked gouda, cream cheese, or blue cheese. Start by lightly grilling halved peaches, then cut them into thin slices and layer them with your chosen cheese in a baguette. Grill the sandwich over open flames for a true gourmet experience.

Blueberries

Wild blueberries, especially those from Maine, are a fantastic choice for grilled cheese due to their smaller size and mellow flavour. They create a wonderful texture alongside melted cheese. Pair them with cheddar, Brie, or gruyere for a delightful combination of salty, nutty, and buttery flavours. Use tangy sourdough or mellow white bread to complete this fruity delight.

Pomegranates

Pomegranates offer the best texture when added to grilled cheese. They are crunchy, juicy, and bursting with flavour. Their tart cherry-like taste pairs wonderfully with sharp cheddar or Camembert. For a less intense cheese experience, try halloumi, which is fresh and tangy. Sprinkle some pomegranate seeds into your grilled cheese and prepare for a flavour explosion.

Chips

Potato Chips

Potato chips are a classic choice to pair with grilled cheese. For a more indulgent option, try making your own homemade potato chips. If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different varieties like dill pickle-flavored potato chips for that extra tangy kick.

Veggie Chips

Veggie chips offer a healthier alternative to regular potato chips. Opt for baked polenta chips or even vegan "cheesy" kale chips for a crunchy and nutritious side to your grilled cheese.

Tater Tots

Tater tots are another fun option to accompany your grilled cheese. They're similar to French fries but with a more compact shape, making them perfect for dipping into sauces or enjoying on their own.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries provide a sweet and savory contrast to the grilled cheese. You can bake or air fry them for a healthier alternative to traditional fries, ensuring a crispy exterior and creamy interior.

Homemade Potato Chips with Ketchup

If you're feeling creative, make your own homemade potato chips and pair them with a sweet and savory homemade ketchup. This ketchup is lower in sugar and sodium, getting its sweetness from garden tomatoes and peppers.

Disco Fries

Disco fries are a unique side dish to try with your grilled cheese. They are smothered in a homemade brown gravy and topped with gooey, melted mozzarella cheese.

So, the next time you're craving grilled cheese, don't forget to include some chips on the side! Experiment with different types of chips and dips to find your perfect match.

Pickles

If you're looking for a heartier option, you can also try pickled vegetables, such as mixed vegetables in a quick brine of unseasoned rice vinegar, salt, and sugar. These bright, slightly sweet pickles can be enjoyed as a snack, on sandwiches, in salads, or even with hot wings.

For those who want to spice things up, jalapeño kettle chips and sweet and spicy cornichon pickles can be a great pairing with grilled cheese.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can even put the pickle on your grilled cheese sandwich. Just slice it thinly enough to get that satisfying crunch without overwhelming the other flavours.

So, the next time you're craving grilled cheese, don't forget to stock up on some pickles and get creative with your combinations.

Frequently asked questions