Easy Roasted Tomato Soup with Crispy Gruyère Toasts Recipe - The Pass and Provisions

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved (Roma or vine-ripened work best)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
• 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
• 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for extra richness)
• 0.5 cups heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free version)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 baguette, sliced
• 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• Fresh basil (for garnish)