Tomato soup is flavorful, soothing, and versatile. It’s one of those dishes that feels familiar and inviting, but sometimes, it needs a little extra to make it truly enjoyable. That’s where the perfect side dish comes in.
Why the Right Side Dishes Matter with Tomato Soup
While the classic pairing of grilled cheese with tomato soup is iconic and loved by many, it’s not the only way to enjoy this delicious soup. Whether you’re in the mood for something healthier, more filling, or just want to try something new, the right side can transform a simple bowl of tomato soup into a complete meal.
People who want to serve something unique with tomato soup besides grilled cheese” are often looking for fresh ideas. They might be trying to avoid the traditional grilled cheese or simply looking for something different to excite their taste buds.
The beauty of tomato soup lies in its versatility—it pairs well with a variety of flavors, textures, and cuisines.By choosing the right sides, you can create a more balanced meal that brings out the best in the soup, whether you’re serving it for a quick lunch or a dinner.
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In this post, we’ll explore several alternative sides to grilled cheese that will elevate your tomato soup experience.
Side Dishes for Tomato Soup Besides Grilled Cheese
When you’re looking for something quick and easy to serve alongside tomato soup, there are plenty of side dishes that complement its flavors. These pairings offer a variety of textures and tastes that elevate your meal without taking up too much time or effort in the kitchen.
Homemade Bread with Tomato Soup
One of the simplest sides you can serve with tomato soup is freshly baked bread. There are many bread types to consider, each offering a different texture and flavor.
Crusty Baguettes
A crusty, French-style baguette with every bite, providing a contrast to the smoothness of the soup.
Ingredients:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: Dissolve sugar in warm water, sprinkle yeast over it, and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dough: Combine flour and salt in a bowl, add yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled.
- Shape Baguettes: Punch down dough, divide into two portions, and shape into long loaves (14-16 inches). Place on a parchment-lined sheet.
- Second Rise: Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) and add a shallow pan of water for steam.
- Score and Bake: Slash the tops of the loaves and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Soft Rolls
For a softer option, a warm, pillowy roll is perfect for dipping into your tomato soup. It soaks up the soup beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Stir until the dough comes together.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough, divide it into 12 equal portions, and shape each portion into a ball. Place them in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between each.
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise for 30-45 minutes, until puffed.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Bake rolls for 15-18 minutes, until golden brown.
Sourdough
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough starter (active)
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar. Gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms. Stir in salt.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise for 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough and shape it into a round or oval loaf. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a proofing basket.
- Second Rise: Cover the dough and let it rise for 2-3 hours, until it’s puffy and almost doubled in size.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack for steam.
- Bake: Score the top of the loaf and bake for 30-40 minutes, until the crust is golden and sounds hollow when tapped.
You may also like Rustic Italian Bread
2. Avocado Toast with Tomato Soup
If you’re looking for a trendy, health-conscious pairing, avocado toast is an excellent choice. The creamy texture of avocado adds a refreshing contrast to the acidity of the tomato soup, creating a balance of flavors.
Avocado toast also works well for those seeking a more filling yet light side dish, adding healthy fats and fiber to the meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough, whole grain, etc.)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: olive oil, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, or a poached egg
Instructions:
- Toast the Bread: Toast the slices of bread to your desired crispiness.
- Prepare the Avocado: Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Mash it with a fork until smooth, or leave it slightly chunky.
- Season the Avocado: Add salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, mix in a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
- Assemble the Toast: Spread the mashed avocado evenly over the toasted bread.
- Add Toppings: Top with any additional toppings like red pepper flakes, a poached egg, or extra olive oil.
3. Cheese Sticks and Tomato Soup
For a kid-friendly option that adds a fun crunch, cheese sticks (or mozzarella sticks) are a great choice. It’s the perfect side for children or anyone who loves a little indulgence.
- Dipping: These cheese sticks can be dipped directly into the soup for a flavorful bite.
- Easy to Make: Store-bought or homemade, cheese sticks are a quick and simple addition to your tomato soup meal.
Not only do they provide the crunch and creaminess that make them appealing, but they also add a bit of fun and nostalgia to the meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 package puff pastry (or 1 sheet homemade dough)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (optional, for brushing)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dough: Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a floured surface. Roll it out to an even thickness.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the dough.
- Fold and Cut: Fold the dough in half and gently press it together. Cut the dough into strips about 1 inch wide.
- Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it lightly over the cheese sticks for a golden finish.
- Bake: Place the strips on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
Healthy Sides for Tomato Soup
Salads to Pair with Tomato Soup
Salad is always a healthy and light dish that can be combined with any meal, but with tomato soup, its taste is truly amazing.Here are some great options to consider:
Mixed Greens with Vinaigrette: A simple salad made with fresh greens like spinach, arugula, or mixed lettuce can be topped with a light vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and halved
- 1 cup mixed olives (such as Kalamata and Castelvetrano), halved
- 1/2 cup sweet and tangy pepper drops
- 1/2 cup jarred pickled peppers, quartered
- 1 cup cubed provolone cheese
Instructions:
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, artichokes, olives, pickled peppers, and cheese cubes.
- Toss and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients. Serve immediately and enjoy!
- Quinoa Salad: For a protein-packed option, try a quinoa salad. Quinoa is a whole grain that pairs beautifully with tomato soup. Add some diced veggies, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. The quinoa adds fiber and protein, balancing the soup’s more liquid-heavy texture.
Tomato Soup and Pasta
Tomato soup and pasta is a classic pairing that works beautifully, especially when the pasta is prepared as a light side dish. Here are a few ideas:
- Pasta Salad: A simple pasta salad with fresh vegetables, like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, is a great way to add variety to the meal. Toss the pasta with a light dressing, such as balsamic vinaigrette, for a Mediterranean twist.
- Simple Pasta Side: If you want something even more straightforward, consider a small portion of pasta tossed with a bit of olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This minimalist pasta dish won’t compete with the flavors of the soup but will still add a taste element to the meal.
You can also choose your favorite pasta from my collection of 20 Pasta Salad Recipes .
Vegetarian Side Options
For those who prefer a meatless or vegetarian pairing, I have chosen these recipes so they can also enjoy tomato soup in a tasty way.
- Roasted Mushrooms: Roasted mushrooms are a savory side that pairs wonderfully with tomato soup. Try roasting them with olive oil, garlic, and fresh thyme. You can also choose any mushrooms you like, but I prefer Portobello mushroom caps.
Ingredients:
- 4 large Portobello mushroom caps
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, balsamic vinegar, or fresh herbs for added flavor
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Mushrooms: Remove the stems from the mushroom caps and gently scrape out the gills with a spoon.
Season: Brush the mushroom caps with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings or balsamic vinegar.
Bake: Place the mushroom caps on the baking sheet, gill-side up, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender.
Chickpea-Based Dishes: Chickpeas are a great source of protein and fiber. Consider making a simple chickpea salad with cucumbers, red onions, and a lemon dressing, or try roasted chickpeas as a crunchy side.
You can also try Italian Pasta Salad With Chickpeas
Creative Ideas for Serving Tomato Soup
Tomato Soup and Quesadillas
The crunchy exterior of the quesadilla contrasts perfectly with the smooth soup, and the cheese and fillings add depth and flavor. It’s a fun and interactive meal, especially when you dip your quesadilla into the soup!
Tomato Soup with Muffins: Cheesy or Herbed
Savory muffins are an excellent side for tomato soup. Cheesy muffins (like cheddar) or herbed muffins (with rosemary, thyme, or basil) bring a savory element to the meal.
Tomato Soup and Grilled Veggie Sandwiches
For a healthier twist, pair your tomato soup with a grilled veggie sandwich. Choose roasted or grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers for a light meal.
Tomato Soup with Stuffed Bread
Stuffed bread, such as cheese-stuffed breadsticks or a savory garlic bread, pairs wonderfully with tomato soup. You can even fill the bread with cheese or herbs.
Tomato Soup and Roasted Potatoes
Roasted potatoes are an excellent side for tomato soup. The crispy texture of roasted potatoes complements the creamy texture of the soup. You can season the potatoes with herbs like rosemary or thyme.
