Winter on the East Coast isn’t all “Winter Wonderland” and “Do you want to build a snowman?” type situations. You’re lucky if the temperature reaches a high of 30 degrees, and your digits don’t completely freeze off while walking from your house to the train/bus. I’m getting chills just thinking about it. However, a thought that warms my heart is my favorite comfort food during the frigid winter months. It’s fairly simple, both in method of preparation as well as any sort plate presentation pizzazz. However, it’s a classic meal that you don’t have to be a foodie to make or love. It’s easy and inexpensive to make.

Grilled cheese and tomato soup is an affinity pairing. The pieces of toast are porous and somewhat crunchy, but so perfect to dunk and absorb the tomato soup, be it freshly made or even Campbell’s. The cheese is melted and smooth, like a layer of liquid gold, and is a beautiful contrast to the acidity of the soup. Is there even a more perfect way to spend a wintery day off than at home in your favorite sweats, Netflix, and this? When it’s too cold to go outside, just plug in your Panini Press (or a George Foreman grill, if you lack an entire kitchen of culinary gadgets) and warm up with a grilled cheese sandwich and a bowl of tomato soup. The chills will instantly melt away after one bite…unless of course, you’re into freezing, that is.