Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is it! Imagine cozying up with a warm bowl of rich, velvety soup on a chilly evening. This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s about creating memories. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends and family, this soup brings smiles to everyone’s faces and pairs perfectly with a grilled cheese sandwich.

What makes this soup extra special is the depth of flavor achieved by roasting the tomatoes. The sweetness intensifies, making each spoonful a delightful experience. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that you’ll find yourself making it over and over!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, rich flavor: Roasting the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness, creating an unforgettable taste.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting bowl of goodness.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Versatile pairings: It’s delicious on its own or served alongside your favorite sandwich or salad.
• Easy preparation: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is friendly for all cooking skill levels.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Fresh tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and creamy goodness come together to create something magical. Let’s take a look at 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variation ideas to make it your own:

• Add some heat: If you like a little kick, toss in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions.
• Go vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
• Boost the veggies: Add bell peppers or carrots when cooking down the onions for extra nutrients and texture.
• Herb swap: Try using oregano or parsley instead of basil for a different herbal twist.

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 pepper. Roasting them for an hour brings out their natural sweetness and gives the soup its rich base.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt your butter along with some extra virgin olive oil. Add the diced onion and sauté until they are soft and translucent—about five minutes. This step is key because it builds flavor right from the start!

Step 3: Add Herbs and Spices

Stir in minced garlic, fresh thyme, Kosher salt, and black pepper into the pot. Sauté everything together for another minute until fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth!

Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Simmer

Add in crushed San Marzano tomatoes along with freshly chopped basil and sugar to balance out acidity. Lower your heat and let this simmer for about ten minutes—this allows all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Incorporate the Roasted Tomatoes

Now it’s time to add those delicious roasted tomatoes into your pot along with chicken stock. Let everything simmer together for about thirty minutes while stirring occasionally. This step creates that luscious texture we love in our soup!

Step 6: Purée Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth (or carefully transfer batches to a blender). This makes sure every bite is creamy without any chunks interrupting your enjoyment!

Step 7: Finish with Cream

Stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated—this adds that rich finish that takes this soup over-the-top deliciousness!

Step 8: Create Mini Croutons

For some fun texture, cut small pieces of bread into cubes. Toss them with olive oil, diced garlic, and basil before baking at 400°F for about seven minutes until golden brown.

Step 9: Serve

Ladle your gorgeous roasted tomato basil soup into bowls and top each serving with homemade croutons. Enjoy immediately!

And there you have it—a warm hug in a bowl! I hope you enjoy making this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Making the perfect Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is all about enhancing those flavors and achieving that creamy texture. Here are some tips to elevate your soup-making game!

• Choose ripe tomatoes: Opt for fresh, ripe Roma tomatoes as they have the best flavor. The sweetness of ripe tomatoes will shine through in your soup, making it taste even better.

• Don’t skip roasting: Roasting the tomatoes adds depth and a rich caramelized flavor to the soup. This step is crucial for achieving that comforting taste you’ll love.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil and thyme make a world of difference compared to dried herbs. Their vibrant flavors will brighten the soup and enhance its aroma.

• Blend thoroughly: For a silky-smooth texture, ensure that you blend the soup well. An immersion blender works wonders, but if you’re using a regular blender, blend in batches for safety.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Every batch can be slightly different, so feel free to add more salt, pepper, or even a touch more sugar if the acidity of the tomatoes is too pronounced.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

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

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole or torn basil leaves on top not only add color but also enhance the fresh flavor profile.

• Drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and an inviting sheen to your bowl of soup.

• Shaved Parmesan or vegan alternative: For those who enjoy cheese, a sprinkle of shaved Parmesan or a grated vegan alternative can add an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Grilled cheese sandwiches: Nothing pairs better with tomato soup than a classic grilled cheese! The gooey melted cheese and crispy bread create a heavenly combination that complements the smoothness of the soup.

• Simple green salad: A refreshing green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette balances out the meal with freshness and crunch.

• Herb focaccia: Soft, herb-infused focaccia makes for delicious dipping into the soup. Its fluffy texture absorbs the flavors beautifully.

• Roasted vegetable platter: A tray of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your meal while providing a satisfying crunch alongside your creamy soup.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this delightful Roasted Tomato Basil Soup! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, store it in the fridge or freezer, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe.

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

You can enhance the flavor by adding more herbs like oregano or rosemary, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity. Also, consider garnishing with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil just before serving!

Can I make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version. This will still provide creaminess without using animal products.

What can I serve with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a fresh side salad. It’s perfect comfort food for any occasion!

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes! Using canned San Marzano tomatoes will work beautifully if fresh tomatoes aren’t available. Just be sure to adjust seasoning as canned tomatoes may vary in flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup brings warmth and comfort to your table! Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it an unforgettable dish that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy making this cozy classic, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite flavors. Happy cooking!