Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, you’ve come to the right place! This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas and brings everyone together. There’s something truly special about the deep, rich flavor of roasted tomatoes paired with fresh basil. It’s comfort food at its best, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

So, grab your favorite bread for dipping because this soup pairs beautifully with grilled cheese sandwiches. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: Roasting the tomatoes intensifies their sweetness, creating a rich base that makes each spoonful amazing.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this creamy soup without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting taste of this roasted tomato basil soup.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it easy to meal prep for those busy days.
• Versatile Pairings: Enjoy it alone or with crusty bread, grilled cheese, or even a fresh salad!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s keep it simple! The ingredients for this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup are wholesome and easy to find. You’ll love how fresh and satisfying they are:

For the Soup

• 9 Roma tomatoes (sliced lengthwise)
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (minced)
• 1 tsp Kosher salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 1 28 oz. can San Marzano tomatoes (crushed)
• 1 cup basil (fresh, roughly chopped)
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 2/3 cup heavy cream

Variations

One of the best things about this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to make it your own:

• Add some heat: If you like a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions.
• Make it vegan: Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a delicious plant-based version.
• Include veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or bell peppers when cooking the onions for added nutrition and flavor.
• Garnish creatively: Top with shredded vegan cheese or a dollop of pesto for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F before you start prepping. Spread the sliced Roma tomatoes on a baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. A sprinkle of salt and pepper adds just the right touch. Roasting these beauties for an hour not only enhances their flavors but also brings out their natural sweetness. Trust me; this step is key!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While your tomatoes roast away, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add in your diced onion and sauté for about five minutes until they become soft and translucent. This process helps release their sweetness into the soup! Then stir in minced garlic and thyme—ahh, that lovely aroma!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your aromatics are fragrant, add in the crushed San Marzano tomatoes along with chopped basil and sugar. Lower the heat and let everything simmer for about ten minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Now it’s time to add our roasted tomatoes along with chicken stock into the mix. Let everything simmer for another thirty minutes while stirring occasionally. This gives us that lovely depth of flavor we crave!

Step 5: Blend It Up!

Using an immersion blender, purée your soup directly in the pot until smooth. If using a standard blender, do so carefully in batches—it can be hot! Return everything back to the pot once blended.

Step 6: Finish with Cream

Finally, stir in heavy cream for that luscious finish we all love in our soups!

Step 7: Prepare Mini Croutons (Optional)

For a crunchy topping, cut small cubes from your favorite bread, toss them with oil, minced garlic, and some basil before baking at 400°F for about seven minutes. These croutons add fantastic texture!

Step 8: Serve

Ladle your beautiful soup into bowls, sprinkle those croutons on top if you’re using them, and serve immediately. Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Making the perfect Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to elevate your soup game.

• Choose ripe tomatoes: The flavor of your soup heavily relies on the quality of the tomatoes. Opt for ripe, in-season Roma tomatoes for the best taste.

• Don’t skip roasting: Roasting enhances the natural sweetness and depth of flavor in the tomatoes. It also brings out a wonderful caramelization that adds richness to your soup.

• Experiment with herbs: While basil is traditional, feel free to add other herbs like oregano or parsley for extra flavor dimensions. Fresh herbs can brighten up the soup remarkably!

• Adjust creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. This keeps it creamy without compromising on taste.

• Taste as you go: Always taste your soup before serving. You may want to adjust seasoning or add a splash of lemon juice to balance flavors perfectly.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Serving this delightful soup can be as creative as you like! Here are some ideas to present it beautifully and enhance the dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves placed on top add a pop of color and reinforce that fresh basil flavor.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light swirl of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving gives a luxurious finish.
• Parmesan cheese shavings: For those who enjoy dairy, a sprinkle of freshly shaved Parmesan can add a savory touch (omit if you’re avoiding animal-derived products).

Side Dishes

• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The classic pairing! Crisp, buttery bread filled with melted cheese complements the creamy soup perfectly.

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy and flavorful, garlic bread is an excellent choice for dipping into your soup while adding an aromatic touch.

• Salad with Vinaigrette: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup and adds freshness to your meal.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables not only bring vibrant colors but also provide additional nutrients and textures alongside your comforting bowl of soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup will not only warm hearts but also impress guests at any gathering! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, making your busy days a little easier and more delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy reference.

Freezing

• Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning out single servings for convenient meals later.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use a microwave on low power.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Tomato Basil Soup that you might find helpful!

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones in Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

Absolutely! Using fresh tomatoes will enhance the flavor. Just make sure to roast them properly to bring out their sweetness.

How can I make my Roasted Tomato Basil Soup creamier?

To achieve a creamier texture, you can add more heavy cream or blend the soup longer until it’s smooth. This will give you that luscious consistency you’re looking for!

What goes well with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic pairing, but you can also serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I adjust the seasoning in Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference. Cooking is all about what makes your taste buds happy!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup warms your heart and fills your home with delightful aromas! It’s not just a recipe; it’s comfort in a bowl that brings people together. Enjoy making it as much as you will savor every spoonful. I can’t wait for you to try it and share your thoughts!