Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onion and Tomato

Perhaps you have simply had the day of all days. The kids were not cooperative, the husband was cranky, a deadline at work sent you in a tail spin or you have been a little down in the dumps for what ever reason and just need to chill. So where do you turn for that comfort that you need? Is it a glass of wine, a nice warm bath (or both)?

For many of us comfort lies with food. Food feeds not only our bodies but also feeds the soul. When the soul is malnourished our inner self searches for ways to satisfy it.


In its' most simplistic form food that is neither fancy or expensive or time consuming to make can be just what the doctor ordered. Perhaps it's a crispy piece of rye bread laden with butter to go along with a cup of tea, or a steaming bowl of soup, or a childhood favorite sandwich like grilled cheese.

Who doesn't like cheese? There are so many cheeses to choose from - all you have to do is pick your favorite melting cheese put it between bread, slather it with butter on both sides and grill or fry it up. Sink your teeth into a sandwich that is oozing melted cheese and in an instant you will find comfort.
With all of the tomatoes from the garden I decided that just the comfort I need right now is a grilled cheese with tomatoes and caramelized onions. Quick, cheap and oh so tasty!

• 1 large onion - peeled, cut in half moon slices
• 1 tbsp. butter
• rye bread
• 1 red ripe tomato - sliced
• American cheese
• black pepper to taste

1. In a small skillet over medium heat melt the butter.
2. Turn the heat to low and add in the half moons of sliced onion and black pepper to taste. Stir and cook until the onion is caramelized. Takes about 8-10 minutes.
3. Slice the tomato.
4. Put 2 slices of the cheese on both sides of the bread.
5. Place 2 slices of tomato on one side and add pepper to taste.
6. When the onions are caramelized, top the tomato with the onions.
7. Grill the sandwich in the same skillet you did the onions in. Spread some butter to the outside of the bread, close the sandwich and grill in the pan with a lid to cover until both sides are golden brown.
8. Allow the sandwich to sit for a minute, then slice and serve.