Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup! There’s something about the combination of sweet roasted tomatoes and fresh basil that just warms the soul. This recipe has been a treasured favorite in my home for years, especially on chilly evenings or during family gatherings. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or serving up to friends with a side of grilled cheese sandwiches—trust me, it pairs perfectly!

The best part? It’s so easy to make! With simple ingredients and a few steps, you can whip up a batch that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this soup comes together effortlessly—perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Both kids and adults adore the rich flavors of roasted tomatoes and basil.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep!
• Delicious Flavor: Roasting the tomatoes enhances their sweetness, giving your soup a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy ingredients for this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup—just wholesome, fresh produce and a few pantry staples. Gather these simple items, and you’re ready to go!

Fresh Ingredients

• 9 Roma tomatoes (sliced lengthwise)
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (minced)
• 1 cup basil (fresh, roughly chopped)

Canned Goods

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

Seasonings

• 1 tsp Kosher salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp sugar

Broth and Cream

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

With everything gathered, you’re all set to create your delicious soup!

Variations

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or carrots for an extra nutritional boost.
• Spice It Up: Want a kick? Add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce to the mix!
• Creamy Alternative: For a lighter version, substitute coconut milk for the heavy cream.
• Herb Swap: Try using fresh oregano or parsley instead of basil if you want a different flavor profile.

How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spread those halved Roma tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, creating layers of flavor that will make your soup truly special.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter or add more olive oil if you prefer. Toss in your diced onion and sauté for about five minutes until they are soft and translucent. Adding garlic at this stage is key; it only needs about a minute to release its fragrant goodness before moving on.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the minced thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Then add in your crushed San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and sugar. Lower the heat to let everything simmer for about ten minutes—this melds the flavors beautifully!

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Now it’s time to add those roasted tomatoes along with two cups of chicken stock into the pot. Let it simmer gently for about thirty minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows all those rich flavors to develop fully.

Step 5: Blend It Up

Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one handy, carefully transfer batches into a blender or food processor. Just remember to return it all back to the pot afterward!

Step 6: Finish with Cream

Stir in your heavy cream until well combined—this adds that luscious texture we all crave!

Step 7: Prepare Mini Croutons

For an added crunch on top of your soup, cut small cubes from some bread and toss them with oil, diced garlic, and basil. Bake them at 400°F for about seven minutes until golden brown.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle your vibrant soup into bowls and top with those crunchy croutons right before serving. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful bowl of love—your homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Creating the perfect Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is all about those little details that bring out the best flavors. Here are some handy tips to ensure your soup is a hit!

• Use ripe tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes will impart the best flavor to your soup. They add sweetness and a vibrant color that enhances the overall dish.

• Don’t skip the roasting: Roasting the tomatoes caramelizes their natural sugars, intensifying their flavor. This step is crucial for achieving that deep, rich taste that makes this soup irresistible.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste-test your soup before serving and feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, or even a pinch of sugar if needed.

• Blend well for creaminess: Whether you use an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender, ensure you blend until smooth. A creamy texture makes the soup feel indulgent and comforting.

• Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stove for best results.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Serving your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup can be as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves on top not only look gorgeous but also add a fresh burst of flavor.
• Drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and an inviting sheen to your soup.
• Parmesan cheese (or dairy-free alternative): A sprinkle of grated cheese adds a savory finish; however, you can opt for a vegan alternative if preferred.

Side Dishes

• Grilled cheese sandwiches: The classic pairing! Crispy, gooey grilled cheese complements the soup’s warmth and enhances its comfort food appeal.

• Crusty sourdough bread: Perfect for dipping! The tangy flavor of sourdough contrasts beautifully with the sweet tomato base.

• Simple mixed green salad: A light salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the soup while adding freshness to your meal.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers or zucchini make a colorful side that brings extra nutrients and flavors to your table.

Enjoy serving up this delicious Roasted Tomato Basil Soup alongside these delightful accompaniments for a wonderfully satisfying meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delicious flavors throughout the week. It stores well, making it a convenient option for busy days when you crave comforting soup.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

Here’s a quick rundown of some common questions you might have about this comforting recipe.

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

Absolutely! Using fresh tomatoes will add vibrant flavor to your soup. Just ensure you roast them as instructed to enhance their sweetness.

How can I adjust the consistency of my Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

If you’d like a thicker soup, reduce the amount of stock added. For a thinner consistency, just add more stock or cream until you reach your desired texture.

What can I serve with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a classic grilled cheese sandwich or a fresh green salad. You can also enjoy it with crusty bread for dipping!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup as much as I do! Its rich flavors and comforting warmth make it a special dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoying it with friends or family is what makes this recipe truly shine. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every spoonful!