Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, then look no further than this delightful Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. This recipe has been a cherished staple in my kitchen for years, and every time I make it, I’m transported to cozy evenings spent with loved ones. The rich, hearty flavor of roasted tomatoes combined with fresh basil creates a warm hug in a bowl that is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich—a match made in heaven!

This soup is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly simple to prepare. You’ll find that the wholesome ingredients come together effortlessly to create something truly special. So grab your favorite pot and let’s dive into making this scrumptious Roasted Tomato Basil Soup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious soup ready to enjoy.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavors of roasted tomatoes and fresh basil.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time, and you’ll have comforting meals ready all week long.
• Deliciously versatile: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite sandwiches for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh Ingredients

• 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 Goods

• 1 28 oz. can San Marzano tomatoes (crushed)
• 2 cups chicken stock

Creamy Addition

• 2/3 cup heavy cream

Variations

One of the best things about this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with these fun variations:

• Add some spice: For a kick, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions.
• Make it vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a plant-based twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in diced carrots or bell peppers along with the onions for added nutrition and flavor.
• Herb swap: Try using different herbs like oregano or parsley if you want to change things up!

How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spread those beautiful tomato halves on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle on salt and black pepper. Roasting the tomatoes is crucial because it enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the soup’s flavor. Roast them for about an hour until they are caramelized and fragrant.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add in your diced onion and sauté for about five minutes. This step is important because sautéing brings out the natural sweetness of the onions, which adds great flavor to your soup.

Step 3: Mix in Garlic and Herbs

Stir in minced garlic, fresh thyme, Kosher salt, and black pepper. Sauté everything together for another minute until fragrant. This will help infuse all those lovely flavors into your base before adding more ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Simmer

Add in your crushed San Marzano tomatoes, chopped basil, and sugar into the pot. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about ten minutes—this allows 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 chicken stock into the pot. Let everything simmer together for thirty minutes while stirring occasionally. This step is key as it allows the soup to develop its rich flavors.

Step 6: Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring batches to a regular blender), purée the soup until smooth. Blending creates that silky texture we all love in soups! Return it back to the pot once blended.

Step 7: Stir in Cream

Finally, stir in the heavy cream until it’s fully incorporated and heated through. This adds that creamy goodness that makes this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup so indulgent!

Step 8: Serve with Croutons

For an extra treat, make mini croutons by cutting small pieces of bread into cubes, tossing them with olive oil, diced garlic, and basil—then bake at 400°F for about seven minutes until golden brown! Top your warm soup with these crunchy delights right before serving.

Now gather around the table with family or friends and enjoy every spoonful of this cozy comfort food!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Making this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use ripe tomatoes: The flavor of your soup greatly depends on the quality of your tomatoes. Ripe, in-season tomatoes will provide a naturally sweet and rich taste that shines in your dish.

• Don’t skip roasting: Roasting the tomatoes enhances their sweetness and adds depth to the soup. This step is crucial for achieving that comforting, robust flavor.

• Experiment with fresh herbs: While basil is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other herbs like oregano or parsley for a unique twist. Fresh herbs add brightness and complexity to your soup.

• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go! Since ingredients can vary in flavor, adding salt and pepper incrementally will help you find the perfect balance without overpowering the soup.

• Blend until smooth: For a creamy texture, ensure you blend the soup thoroughly. A smooth consistency makes each spoonful heavenly, especially when paired with croutons!

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Serving Roasted Tomato Basil Soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some suggestions to present this comforting bowl of goodness beautifully and deliciously.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves placed on top not only add color but also enhance the fresh basil flavor.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light swirl of extra virgin olive oil adds richness and an eye-catching finish.
• Parmesan cheese shavings (or plant-based alternative): If you’re looking for that savory umami kick, sprinkle some cheese shavings on top for added depth.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The crunchiness of grilled cheese pairs perfectly with the smoothness of the soup—it’s a classic combo that never disappoints!

• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup while adding a healthy crunch.

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is excellent for dipping into the soup; its buttery flavor complements the tomato base wonderfully.

• Mini Quiches: These bite-sized delights offer protein and variety. You can fill them with vegetables or cheese for a delightful addition to your meal.

Enjoy your delicious Roasted Tomato Basil Soup shared with loved ones around the table—it truly embodies comfort food at its finest!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is perfect for meal prep! It not only tastes even better the next day, but it also stores beautifully. Here’s how you can keep it fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it to prevent condensation.
• For easy serving, consider portioning it out into smaller containers.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label the containers with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also microwave individual portions, but stir halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup.

Can I use different types of tomatoes for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

Yes! While Roma tomatoes are ideal for roasting due to their lower moisture content, you can also use other varieties like vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes for a different flavor profile.

How do I make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup vegan?

To make a vegan version of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, simply replace the butter with extra virgin olive oil and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative like almond or cashew cream.

What can I serve with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

This comforting soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a delightful meal!

Can I add other vegetables to my Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach while sautéing the onions. They will enhance both flavor and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup as much as I do! The rich flavors from the roasted tomatoes combined with fresh basil create a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner or meal prepping for busy days ahead, this recipe is sure to bring comfort and joy to your table. Happy cooking!