As I type this, I’m looking out the window at the pouring, freezing rain and a wave of dread is washing over me, even if I only need to be outside for about 5 seconds on the walk from my car into work. Most days, I prefer constant motion and love nothing more than to spend a day on the go, with plenty of time outdoors, breathing in the fresh air. But on days like this, I take a complete 180; nothing makes me happier than staying put and working, reading, or, ideally, cooking the day away. And there’s no better rainy day food to accompany these low-key activities than grilled cheese and tomato soup. Sometimes, though, mixing up the classic dish can be fun, especially when fresh takes on the carby component are the center of experimentation. Think cheese-filled pasta instead of cheese-filled bread.

Heather, author of Girlichef, does just that with hertomato-garlic soup with cheese tortellini. It’s as ifTortellini in BrodoandCreamy Tomato Souphad a lovechild – and the results are vibrant and warm, with just enough richness. Perfect for a rainy day…or any day, really.