Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your heart and soul, this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is just what you need. There’s something magical about the way the tomatoes caramelize in the oven, transforming into a sweet and savory delight that fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma. It’s a recipe that has been passed down through family gatherings and chilly evenings, offering comfort in every spoonful. Perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend gathering with friends, this soup pairs beautifully with grilled cheese sandwiches for that classic combination everyone loves.

Whether you’re an experienced chef or just starting out, this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Gather around the table, share stories, and enjoy this deliciously simple meal together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With just a few steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip up this comforting soup in no time.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Kids and adults alike will love the rich taste of roasted tomatoes and fresh basil.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup can be prepared in advance and even freezes well for those busy days.
• Versatile Pairings: Enjoy it on its own or serve it alongside your favorite sandwich for a full meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, you’ll want to gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that bring out the best flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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 how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add some spice: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
• Go vegan: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a creamy texture without dairy.
• Mix in veggies: For extra nutrition, add chopped carrots or bell peppers when sautéing the onions.
• Herb it up: Experiment with other herbs like oregano or parsley for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F and spread those beautiful tomato halves on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle some salt and black pepper on top. Roasting the tomatoes not only enhances their natural sweetness but also brings out their rich flavors. Bake them for about an hour until they are perfectly caramelized.

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 in your diced onion and sauté it for about five minutes until it’s soft and translucent. This step is crucial because it builds a flavorful base for your soup!

Step 3: Add Garlic and Herbs

Stir in minced garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper into the pot. Sauté these ingredients together for another minute until fragrant. The aroma will be heavenly! This combination creates depth in your soup that makes each bite delightful.

Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Simmer

Next, add in your crushed San Marzano tomatoes, chopped basil, and sugar. Lower the heat slightly and let everything simmer together for about ten minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Add Stock & Roasted Tomatoes

Now it’s time to mix in both your chicken stock and those roasted tomatoes from earlier. Allow everything to simmer gently for about 30 minutes while stirring occasionally. This step helps develop that comforting essence we all crave in a good soup.

Step 6: Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth right in the pot—this makes cleanup easier! If you don’t have one, carefully transfer batches to a blender or food processor to purée before returning it back to the pot.

Step 7: Finish with Cream

Stir in your heavy cream right before serving; it adds richness that makes this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup truly special!

Step 8: Serve with Croutons

If you’d like to make mini croutons as a topping—just cut small pieces of bread into cubes, toss them with oil, diced garlic, and basil before baking at 400°F for about seven minutes until golden brown! Sprinkle these crunchy bites on top of each bowl of soup.

Now gather everyone around the table—it’s time to serve up this deliciously cozy bowl of goodness! Enjoy every last drop!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Making the perfect Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is all about those little details that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some pro tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time!

• Choose ripe tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes will yield the best flavor. Look for tomatoes that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch and have a rich red color.

• Don’t skip roasting: Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and deepens the flavors. It’s a crucial step that you won’t want to miss!

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t hesitate to taste your soup before serving. Add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of sugar if needed.

• Use fresh basil: The freshness of the basil adds a vibrant flavor that dried herbs simply can’t match. Add it at the end of cooking for maximum potency.

• Let it cool before blending: If using a blender instead of an immersion blender, allow the soup to cool slightly first. This will prevent hot splatters and ensure a smooth blend.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Serving this delightful soup is just as important as making it! Here are some fun ideas to present your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves on top not only add color but also enhance the fresh herbal aroma.
• Drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle right before serving adds richness and a touch of elegance.
• Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative): Sprinkling some finely grated cheese adds a savory depth—if you’re using a vegan option, go for nutritional yeast!

Side Dishes

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic pairing! The gooeyness of melted cheese between crispy bread complements the soup perfectly.
• Simple Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances out the warm, comforting soup.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is always a hit! Use your favorite bread and enjoy dipping it in your soup.
• Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: For a lighter option, serve crunchy vegetable sticks like carrots and celery alongside creamy hummus for dipping.

Enjoy crafting this comforting dish, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones—it’s sure to bring smiles all around!

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. Here’s how to store and keep it fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to 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

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.

FAQs

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

Can I make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup without cream?

Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter version, you can omit the cream and add additional vegetable stock for a delicious, low-fat option.

How long does Roasted Tomato Basil Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Roasted Tomato Basil Soup can last up to 4 days in the fridge.

What should I serve with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

This comforting soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches or a fresh side salad. Enjoy it as part of a cozy meal!

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes! Using canned San Marzano tomatoes is a great alternative to fresh tomatoes, especially when they’re out of season. Just follow the recipe as usual!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl that brings comfort and happiness. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is sure to brighten your day. Don’t hesitate to try it out and make it your own—happy cooking!

---

[Soup]