Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that embodies the essence of cozy home cooking. This soup takes the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes, enhances it with the depth of roasting, and balances it with the freshness of basil. The creamy, velvety texture and robust flavor make it perfect for any season. Whether served as a starter, a light lunch, or paired with a classic grilled cheese sandwich, this soup is always a crowd-pleaser.

While traditional tomato soup relies on canned tomatoes, this recipe uses fresh, oven-roasted tomatoes, garlic, and onions to create a richer, more complex flavor. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the slow roasting process results in a dish that tastes both indulgent and nourishing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Flavor: Roasting the tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness and brings out their best qualities.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fresh ingredients, this soup is both delicious and good for you.
Simple and Accessible: Made with easy-to-find ingredients, it’s perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
Customizable: Adjust the texture, spice, or creaminess to suit your preferences.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The soup stores well, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 14g

Ingredients

For the Roasted Tomatoes:

• 2 1/2 pounds ripe tomatoes (Roma, heirloom, or cherry), halved or quartered
• 1 medium onion, cut into wedges
• 6 cloves garlic, peeled
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Soup Base:

• 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil leaves
• Drizzle of olive oil or cream
• Croutons or shredded Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes

1. Spread the halved or quartered tomatoes, onion wedges, and garlic cloves evenly on the baking sheet.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss gently to coat.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

1. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized, and the onions are golden around the edges.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

1. Transfer the roasted vegetables to a large pot or blender. Add the fresh basil leaves and 2 cups of broth.
2. Use an immersion blender or a high-speed blender to puree the mixture until smooth. Add more broth to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

1. Place the pot over medium heat. Stir in the sugar (if using) and red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Add Cream (Optional)

1. For a creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of simmering. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 7: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil or cream, and croutons or shredded Parmesan cheese. Serve warm with your favorite bread or sandwich.

Ingredient Background

Tomatoes

Fresh, ripe tomatoes are the star of this dish, offering a naturally sweet and tangy flavor. Roasting enhances their sweetness and adds a smoky depth.

Basil

Basil adds a fresh, herbal note that perfectly complements the roasted tomatoes, elevating the soup’s overall flavor.

Garlic and Onion

These aromatic vegetables add depth and richness to the soup, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.

Heavy Cream

Optional but highly recommended for a creamy, luxurious texture. Coconut milk is a great dairy-free alternative.

Technique Tips

Choose the Right Tomatoes: Roma or plum tomatoes are ideal due to their low moisture content, but any variety works as long as they’re ripe and flavorful.

Roast Evenly: Cut the vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even roasting.

Blend in Batches: If using a traditional blender, work in batches to avoid overfilling and splashing hot liquid.

Adjust Consistency: Add broth gradually while blending to achieve your desired texture, from thick and hearty to smooth and silky.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Chunky Style: Reserve some roasted tomatoes and onions, chop them finely, and stir them back into the blended soup for a chunky texture.

Soup Shots: Serve the soup in small glasses as an appetizer at parties or events. Garnish with a mini crouton or basil leaf.

Bread Bowl: Hollow out a round loaf of crusty bread and ladle the soup inside for a rustic presentation.

Layered Serving: Drizzle cream or pesto in a swirl over the soup for a restaurant-style finish.

Additional Tips for Success

Make It Vegan: Use vegetable broth and coconut milk for a completely vegan version.

Sweeten Naturally: If the tomatoes are too acidic, add a small carrot to the roasting tray for natural sweetness instead of sugar.

Serve Warm: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup tastes best when served warm, not piping hot, to fully appreciate its flavors.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors improve over time, making it a perfect make-ahead option.

Recipe Variations

Tomato Red Pepper Soup: Add roasted red bell peppers to the mix for a smoky, slightly sweet variation.

Spicy Tomato Soup: Incorporate more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for added heat.

Cheesy Tomato Soup: Stir in shredded Parmesan or sharp cheddar for a cheesy upgrade.

Herb Infusion: Add thyme or oregano alongside the basil for a more complex herbal profile.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

Freezing: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Tips: Reheat gently over medium heat to avoid scorching. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens too much.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Skip the Cream: Leave out the heavy cream for a lighter, dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.

Add Vegetables: Roast carrots, celery, or zucchini along with the tomatoes for extra nutrients and a subtle flavor boost.

Low-Sodium Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the salt content and enhance the fresh flavors of the vegetables.

Whole-Grain Croutons: Top the soup with whole-grain croutons for added fiber and crunch.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Casual Lunch: Pair the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich or avocado toast for a simple yet satisfying lunch.

Holiday Starter: Serve small portions as a starter for holiday meals, garnished with fresh basil and a swirl of cream.

Family Dinner: Offer the soup alongside a hearty salad and crusty bread for a wholesome family meal.

Light Appetizer: Serve the soup in small cups or bowls as a light appetizer at parties or gatherings.

Special Equipment

Baking Sheet: A large baking sheet ensures the vegetables roast evenly and caramelize beautifully.

Immersion Blender: A handheld immersion blender makes blending the soup directly in the pot quick and convenient.

High-Speed Blender: For an ultra-smooth texture, use a high-speed blender to puree the soup.

Fine Mesh Strainer (Optional): For an extra-smooth soup, strain it through a fine mesh sieve to remove any remaining solids.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
   Yes, use high-quality canned whole tomatoes if fresh tomatoes aren’t available. Roasting is optional in this case.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Absolutely! The flavors develop even more after a day or two in the refrigerator.
3. What if I don’t have fresh basil?
   Substitute with dried basil, but use half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
4. Can I skip the roasting step?
   While roasting enhances the flavor, you can skip it and simmer the tomatoes, onions, and garlic instead.
5. How do I make it gluten-free?
   Ensure the croutons are gluten-free, or omit them entirely. The soup itself is naturally gluten-free.
6. What type of tomatoes work best?
   Roma, heirloom, or cherry tomatoes are great options due to their sweetness and low water content.
7. Can I add protein to this soup?
   Yes, stir in cooked chicken, beans, or tofu for added protein.
8. What’s the best way to reheat frozen soup?
   Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.

Conclusion

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a classic recipe that combines simple ingredients with bold flavors for a comforting, nourishing meal. The roasting process elevates the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, while fresh basil and cream bring balance and richness.

Perfect for any occasion, this versatile soup can be customized to your liking and enjoyed year-round. Pair it with your favorite bread or salad for a satisfying meal, and savor the flavors of this wholesome, homemade dish. Try it today, and bring warmth and joy to your table!

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