Grilled Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons (+ Panini Press Giveaway from Sargento!)

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pounds tomatoes, halved
• 1-2 cups vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• Salt and black pepper
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 sprig fresh thyme
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil*
• 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh chives*
• 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme*
• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 6 slices Sargento Colby-Jack cheese, or other semi-firm cheese