To make soup:

Cup of Yum
1. Heat the oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté for 2 minutes, or until translucent.
2. Add the carrots and garlic and sauté for 2 minutes more.
3. Add the remaining soup ingredients to the pot and stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes till all ingredients are soft.
5. Carefully move the soup to a blender and blend until smooth. You can also use an immersion blender to blend the soup in the pot.

To make croutons:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Butter the slices of bread on one side.
2. Place 2 slices of cheese on two of the slices of bread on the un-buttered side.
3. Place the other buttered slices on top to form two sandwiches, so the buttered sides are on the exterior and the cheese is within. Place the sandwiches in a hot skillet.
4. Cook for 2 minutes on each side, or until the bread is browned and the cheese is melted.
5. Remove the sandwiches from the pan and allow to cool enough for you to handle them. Cut each sandwich into 1x1 inch pieces.
6. Place the sandwich cubes on a lined or lightly greased baking sheet and bake them for 5-7 minutes in a 400 degree oven, or until golden brown and crunchy.
7. Remove croutons from the oven and serve with the tomato soup.