Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

If you’re looking for the perfect cozy dish to warm your heart and soul, look no further than this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup! There’s something magical about roasted tomatoes that transforms them into a sweet and savory delight. This soup has been a family favorite for years, gracing our table on busy weeknights and during special gatherings alike. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl, especially when paired with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich.

With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is not just delicious but also incredibly comforting. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, making it an ideal choice whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: Roasting the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness, giving the soup a deep, satisfying taste.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a homemade soup that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: This comforting soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread or sandwiches for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. Each one plays an important role in building flavor and warmth in every spoonful!

Fresh Produce

• 9 Roma tomatoes (sliced lengthwise)
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 cup basil (fresh, roughly chopped)

Pantry Staples

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (minced)
• 1 tsp Kosher salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp sugar

Canned Goodness

• 1 28 oz. can San Marzano tomatoes (crushed)

Liquid Gold

• 2 cups chicken stock
• 2/3 cup heavy cream

Variations

One of the best things about this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is its flexibility. Feel free to get creative with these variations!

• Add Some Spice: For those who enjoy a kick, try adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a plant-based version that’s just as creamy.
• Herb It Up: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like oregano or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
• Throw in Veggies: Add chopped carrots or bell peppers while sautéing the onions for added nutrition and flavor.

How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spread those lovely tomato halves on a baking sheet, drizzle them with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Roasting them for an hour allows their natural sugars to caramelize, resulting in rich flavors that form the base of your soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent—about 5 minutes. This step brings out their sweetness and sets up a flavorful foundation for your soup.

Step 3: Build Flavor

Stir in minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper; sauté for another minute until fragrant. This combination adds depth to your soup that will make each spoonful irresistible.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Next, add the crushed San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and sugar to the pot. This mixture should simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes—allowing all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Now it’s time to add your roasted tomatoes along with the chicken stock into the mix. Let everything simmer together for another 30 minutes while occasionally stirring. The aromas filling your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 6: Blend It Up

Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth—or carefully transfer it in batches to a blender if you don’t have one. Blending gives you that velvety texture we all love in tomato soup!

Step 7: Finish with Cream

Return your blended soup back to the pot and stir in heavy cream. This final touch makes your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup creamy and luscious—perfect for cozy evenings.

Step 8: Add Crunchy Croutons

For some fun texture, whip up mini croutons by cutting small pieces of bread into cubes. Toss them with olive oil, diced garlic, and some basil before baking at 400°F for about 7 minutes until golden brown. Top your served soup with these crunchy delights!

Step 9: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your warm bowl of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup right away! There’s nothing quite like diving into this comforting dish surrounded by friends or family.

Now you’re ready to impress everyone at your table with this lovely recipe! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Creating the perfect Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is easier than you think! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your soup is bursting with flavor and texture.

• Choose ripe tomatoes: Using fresh, ripe Roma tomatoes enhances the sweetness and depth of flavor in your soup. Look for tomatoes that are firm but slightly soft to the touch.

• Don’t skip the roasting: Roasting intensifies the natural sugars in the tomatoes, resulting in a richer, more complex taste. The caramelization adds layers of flavor that you simply can’t achieve by just simmering.

• Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more herbs or spices according to your preference. Fresh herbs like oregano or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add an exciting twist!

• Use high-quality stock: The foundation of any good soup is its liquid. Opt for low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock to control saltiness while enhancing the overall flavor profile.

• Blend until smooth: If you prefer a velvety texture, blend your soup until completely smooth. This makes each spoonful creamy and delightful, elevating it to gourmet status!

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Serving this delightful soup can be as fun and creative as making it! Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a relaxing meal at home, here are some ways to present your dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves placed on top not only look beautiful but also add an aromatic burst of freshness.
• Drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle adds a touch of elegance and richness. It enhances the flavors while giving your soup a glossy finish.
• Shaved Parmesan alternative: For those avoiding dairy, consider using a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast sprinkled on top for an added layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The classic pairing for tomato soup! Crunchy, buttery bread filled with melty cheese creates the perfect contrast in textures.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup without overwhelming it.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread slices are fantastic for dipping; they soak up every delicious drop of soup!
• Mini Quiches: These bite-sized treats can be filled with veggies or cheese for a savory addition that pairs nicely with the comforting soup.

Now you have everything you need to create and serve an unforgettable bowl of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup! Enjoy each warm spoonful and share the love with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is perfect for meal prep! It can be made in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen over time, and is easy to store or freeze for later. Here’s how to keep your delicious soup fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days.
• Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing it to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label and date your containers for easy identification!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use a microwave-safe container to defrost quickly.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If the soup thickens, add a splash of vegetable stock or water to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this comforting recipe:

Can I make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup without cream?

Absolutely! You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative for a lighter version of this delicious soup.

What type of tomatoes should I use for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

Using Roma tomatoes enhances the flavor due to their dense flesh. However, you can also use other varieties like vine-ripened tomatoes or even canned San Marzano tomatoes for convenience.

How long does Roasted Tomato Basil Soup last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl that brings warmth and comfort on chilly days. Enjoy pairing it with your favorite grilled cheese sandwich for a delightful meal. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with wonderful aromas!