Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

If you’re looking for a warm, cozy meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, then you’ve found it! This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is my go-to recipe when I need something comforting and delicious. There’s just something magical about roasting tomatoes; it deepens their flavor and makes the soup taste so rich and satisfying. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a grilled cheese sandwich—who can resist that classic combo on a chilly day?

This soup is not only perfect for busy weeknights but also ideal for family gatherings. It’s simple enough to whip up on a whim yet elegant enough to impress guests at dinner parties. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty soup ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the creamy texture and the bright, fresh flavors of tomato and basil.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup keeps well in the fridge, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Versatile pairing: Enjoy it with your favorite sandwich or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. You probably already have many of these on hand! Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh Ingredients:

• 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 cup basil (fresh, roughly chopped)

Canned & Stock Ingredients:

• 1 28 oz. can San Marzano tomatoes (crushed)
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 2/3 cup heavy cream

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add some heat: If you like a little spice, toss in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions.
• Creamy alternative: Swap out heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• Herb twist: Experiment with other fresh herbs like oregano or parsley for unique flavor profiles.
• Roasted veggies: Add roasted bell peppers or carrots for an extra depth of flavor and texture.

How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spread the sliced Roma tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle them with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to our soup. Roast for about one hour until they are caramelized and fragrant.

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 the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step is key because sautéing the onions enhances their sweetness, which will balance beautifully with the acidity of the tomatoes.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Herbs

Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper next. Sauté everything together for another minute until fragrant. This is where your kitchen begins to smell heavenly!

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes & Simmer

Now it’s time to add in those crushed San Marzano tomatoes along with fresh basil and sugar. Lower the heat and let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes so all those flavors meld together nicely.

Step 5: Combine Roasted Tomatoes & Stock

Add the roasted tomatoes along with your chicken stock into the pot. Let this simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The combination of roasted and canned tomatoes creates an incredible depth of flavor.

Step 6: Blend Until Smooth

Carefully purée your soup using an immersion blender right in the pot or transfer it in batches to a blender or food processor if needed. Be cautious; hot liquids can splatter! Once it’s velvety smooth, return it to the pot.

Step 7: Finish with Cream

Stir in the heavy cream until well combined. This step adds richness that makes every spoonful feel indulgent!

Step 8: Make Mini Croutons (Optional)

For added texture, cut small pieces of bread into cubes, mix them with olive oil, diced garlic, and basil before baking at 400°F for about 7 minutes until crispy.

Step 9: Serve Up!

Ladle your beautiful Roasted Tomato Basil Soup into bowls and top with those delightful mini croutons if you’re using them. Serve immediately while it’s warm—you’ll want everyone gathered around to enjoy it together!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Making the perfect Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is all about attention to detail and a sprinkle of love. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out wonderfully every time:

• Choose ripe tomatoes: Using fresh, ripe Roma tomatoes will enhance the flavor of your soup significantly. The natural sweetness from ripe tomatoes is what makes this dish so comforting.

• Don’t skip roasting: Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sugars and adds depth to the overall flavor. It’s a step that transforms the soup from good to outstanding!

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Every palate is different! Feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, or even add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

• Experiment with herbs: While basil is a star in this recipe, don’t hesitate to incorporate other herbs like oregano or parsley for an added layer of freshness and flavor.

• Blend until smooth: For that velvety texture, ensure you blend the soup thoroughly. If you prefer a chunkier consistency, you can reserve some roasted tomatoes before blending.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Serving Roasted Tomato Basil Soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! With a few simple touches, you can turn this cozy dish into a delightful presentation that impresses everyone at the table.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few torn basil leaves on top not only add color but also enhance the fresh basil flavor.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and visual appeal.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (or plant-based alternative): For an extra touch of creaminess and umami, sprinkle some grated cheese on top right before serving.

Side Dishes

• Grilled cheese sandwich: This classic pairing is hard to beat! The gooeyness of melted cheese between crispy bread complements the smoothness of the soup perfectly.

• Simple green salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette offers a nice contrast to the warm soup and balances out your meal beautifully.

• Roasted vegetable platter: Serve some seasonal roasted veggies on the side for added nutrition and texture. The caramelized flavors will harmonize wonderfully with the tomato basil soup.

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is not only delicious but also perfect for dipping into your creamy soup. Plus, who doesn’t love garlic?

With these simple tips and serving suggestions, your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup will become an instant favorite in your household. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, or freeze portions for those busy days when you need something comforting and delicious in a hurry.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Keep the mini croutons separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain their crunch.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I substitute fresh basil in my Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

Absolutely! While fresh basil provides the best flavor, you can use dried basil as a substitute. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

What makes this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup so special?

The secret lies in roasting the tomatoes! This process enhances their natural sweetness and adds a rich depth of flavor that makes this soup truly unforgettable.

Can I make this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup vegan?

Yes! To make it vegan, simply replace the butter with olive oil and substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream alternative.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

Consider adding a splash of lemon juice or extra thyme for brightness. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick if you enjoy some heat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort. Whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing it with loved ones, this soup is sure to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to come back for more delicious recipes!