Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your heart and soul, look no further than this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. This recipe is one of my all-time favorites! The deep, rich flavors from roasting the tomatoes elevate the taste to something truly special. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something comforting, or for family gatherings where everyone can gather around a bowl of deliciousness.

I love how this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup pairs beautifully with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich. Seriously, it’s a match made in heaven! So grab your apron, and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a handful of simple steps, you’ll have a tasty soup on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavors and comforting vibes of this soup.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it a great option for meal prep.
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy it as an appetizer or make it the star of your meal with some crusty bread.
• Fresh Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, we’re keeping it simple and wholesome. You probably have many of these ingredients in your kitchen already!

For the Soup

• 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 customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste.

• Add Some Heat: If you like a little spice, try adding red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
• Go Vegan: Swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream to keep it plant-based.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or parsley for a new twist on flavor.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and sweetness.

How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures that your tomatoes roast perfectly, creating that rich flavor we love.

Step 2: Roast Your Tomatoes

Spread those beautiful tomato halves on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Roast them for about an hour until they’re soft and caramelized. This step enhances their natural sweetness!

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter. Add in diced onion and sauté for about five minutes until translucent. Then stir in minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper—this will fill your kitchen with an amazing aroma!

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Now it’s time to add crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, and sugar into the pot. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about ten minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add your roasted tomatoes along with chicken stock into the pot. Let everything simmer away for about 30 minutes while stirring occasionally—it’s such a comforting sight!

Step 6: Purée the Soup

Carefully use an immersion blender to purée your soup until smooth. If you’re using a regular blender, do this in batches—it can get messy if you’re not cautious! Once blended, return it to the pot.

Step 7: Finish with Cream

Stir in that luscious heavy cream until fully combined. It adds richness that’s hard to resist!

Step 8: Create Mini Croutons

For a delightful touch, cut small pieces of bread into cubes, drizzle with oil and mix with diced garlic and basil. Bake them at 400°F for about seven minutes until golden brown—these croutons are irresistible!

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle your steaming soup into bowls topped with those crunchy croutons. Serve immediately and watch everyone enjoy every last drop!

There you have it—your very own bowl of comfort! Enjoy this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup anytime you need a little warmth in your life!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Creating the perfect Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve that comforting bowl of goodness!

• Choose ripe tomatoes: Selecting the ripest Roma tomatoes will ensure the best flavor in your soup. Overripe tomatoes carry more natural sweetness, which translates beautifully into your dish.

• Don’t skip the roasting step: Roasting intensifies the flavors of the tomatoes and brings out their natural sweetness. It also adds a lovely depth to the overall taste of your soup.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and quality chicken stock can elevate your soup to gourmet status. They add vibrant flavors that dried herbs or low-quality stocks simply cannot match.

• Blend thoroughly for texture: To achieve a silky-smooth consistency, make sure to blend the soup well. An immersion blender is perfect for this task, but if using a traditional blender, be careful with hot liquids.

• Adjust seasonings to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, or even add a splash of lemon juice if you prefer a zestier flavor profile.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Serving up a bowl of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful accompaniments. Here are some ideas to take your serving game up a notch!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves added on top not only look beautiful but also enhance the aromatic experience of the soup.
• Drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving adds richness and a glossy finish.
• Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative): Shaved or grated cheese provides a savory contrast that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The classic pairing! The gooey melted cheese and crispy bread create a satisfying contrast to the warm soup.

• Herbed Focaccia: This fluffy bread, infused with garlic and herbs, is perfect for dipping. Its soft texture absorbs the soup wonderfully.

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the soup.

• Mini Croutons: As mentioned in our recipe, baking small cubes of bread with olive oil, garlic, and herbs makes for an excellent topping that adds crunch and flavor.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup will impress everyone at your table! Enjoy this cozy dish with loved ones—you deserve it!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and have it ready to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For a quicker option, use the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that may help you in your cooking journey!

Can I make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup without cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version while still keeping that creamy texture.

How do roasted tomatoes enhance Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

Roasting tomatoes caramelizes their natural sugars, giving them a deeper flavor profile that adds richness and complexity to your soup.

Can I use fresh basil instead of dried in Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

Yes! Fresh basil gives a vibrant flavor. Just add it towards the end of cooking for maximum freshness.

What is the best way to serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil or top with mini croutons for added texture!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen! The comforting flavors and rich aroma will surely warm your heart and home. Enjoy making it for yourself or share it with loved ones—there’s nothing quite like gathering around a bowl of delicious soup. Happy cooking!

---

[Soup]