Light and Classic Tomato Soup

This Light and Classic Tomato Soup is not only delicious but tomato soup and a grilled cheese is one of my all-time favorite meals. It's a combination of simple but nostalgic. I don't know what it is about it but it makes me feel like I am a kid again on a cold night.  Something about tomato soup and a grilled cheese just makes me happy and at peace.

To add to the happiness, the tomato soup and grilled cheese at Nordstrom's café, now as an adult combines two of my favorite things. One being shopping and the perfect meal. Dare I say this tomato soup recipe is the lighter version or just as good, if not better than Nordstrom Cafe? I'll let you all be the judge of that!

Grilled Cheese Recipe:

1. Bring your pan to a medium heat.
2. Add a light layer of mayo to each side of your bread and put that side down on the pan. (This makes the bread buttery and crunchy.
3. Add your favorite cheese to both sides of the bread.
4. After they are halfway melted, combine them together.
5. Cook on each side for a minute or until golden brown.

So simple and so yummy. Cut it in half and dip OR cut them into crouton size and add them to your soup.

Light and Classic Tomato Soup

Here's what you'll need:

• Yellow onion 
• Pinch of salt
• Tomato paste
• Whole tomato with liquid
• Vegetable broth
• Cannellini beans
• Unsalted butter 
• Swerve brown sugar
• Onion powder 
• Salt and pepper to taste 
• Optional: 10-15 basil leaves 

Directions:

1. In a soup pan, add olive oil and onions. Cook for 7-10 minutes on medium heat or until translucent.
2. Add tomato paste and cook for about 30 seconds.
3. Add tomatoes and vegetable broth. 
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally. 
5. Remove the pot from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
6. Next, you're going to add your mixture to a blender with beans, butter, sugar, salt and pepper.
7. Blend until smooth.
8. Add in basil leaves and blend again until smooth.
9. Optional: Top with a dollop of greek yogurt and basil leaves.