When two slices of buttery grilled bread are held together with a couple slices of perfectly melted cheese, I consider this comfort food at it’s best. Growing up the grilled cheese sandwich was a staple at our house. It was lunch on a cold day, a favorite of the school cafeteria and the quick and easy late night dinner of the working parents. But the grilled cheese sandwich deserves more credit than just a quick fix meal because over time I have develop a special place for it in my heart. Especially if it is served with tomato soup!

The ancient Romans are given credit with creating the first version of the grilled cheese sandwich and many other cultures have developed their own version as well. In the United States during the 1920’s when sliced bread and cheese were affordable the grilled cheese grew in popularity.

The grilled cheese is made with a little butter, bread and cheese. Only three ingredients are needed to make this ever popular sandwich. Although the original version of the grilled cheese is fairly simple and appeals to most peoples palates, don’t be fooled into thinking that it is best served only as a simple and quick lunch or dinner. Don’t be afraid to dress up your grilled cheese! Try different breads and cheeses, add a tomato or some ham, you might just be surprised at what you can create. My favorite is Sourdough with a few slices of garden fresh tomato and cheddar cheese, it reminds me of my visits to San Francisco. So if you haven’t eaten lunch yet, how about a grilled cheese and tomato soup?