There’s something magical about the aroma of roasted tomatoes mingling with fresh basil, wafting through your kitchen. Imagine curling up on a chilly evening, holding a warm bowl of roasted tomato basil soup—each spoonful bursting with rich flavors that dance on your taste buds, making your heart sing.
This soup isn’t just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Picture this: you’ve had a long day, and the thought of cooking feels overwhelming. But then you remember this simple recipe, and suddenly, dinner becomes an exciting adventure rather than a chore. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests at dinner parties. Soon, you’ll be savoring that delightful blend of sweet roasted tomatoes and fragrant basil, leaving you craving more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Roasted tomato basil soup is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients but delivering maximum flavor
- It’s visually stunning with its vibrant red color and aromatic herbs
- This versatile dish works well as an appetizer or a main course paired with crusty bread
- Plus, it can easily be made ahead and stored for later enjoyment
My friends still rave about the first time I made this soup for a gathering. They were convinced I had slaved over it for hours when really, it was my little secret weapon for impressing company.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ripe Tomatoes: Look for firm tomatoes that are slightly soft to the touch; they yield the best flavor when roasted.
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Fresh Basil: Use bright green leaves; they should smell fragrant and sweet for maximum flavor.
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Garlic Cloves: Opt for fresh cloves instead of pre-minced garlic to enhance the dish’s aroma and taste.
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Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the soup; choose one with smooth skin and no blemishes.
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Vegetable Stock: Homemade stock is great if you have it; otherwise, low-sodium store-bought works well too.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling over the tomatoes before roasting; it adds richness to the flavor.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all those delicious flavors; adjust based on personal taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare yourself for culinary delight as we embark on this flavorful journey together!
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial as it ensures even roasting and enhances those sweet tomato flavors.
Prep Your Tomatoes: Wash and cut your ripe tomatoes in half. Spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle them generously with olive oil.
Add Aromatics: Toss in peeled garlic cloves and quartered onion pieces around the tomatoes on the baking sheet. Sprinkle salt and pepper over everything—let that aroma begin!
Roast Away!: Roast in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until the tomatoes are blistered and caramelized. Your kitchen will smell like heaven by now!
Blend It Up!: Transfer everything from the baking sheet into your blender or food processor. Add fresh basil leaves along with vegetable stock until you achieve your desired consistency.
Heat It Up!: Pour the blended mixture into a pot over medium heat. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes so those flavors can mingle beautifully.
Now you’re ready to serve up some delicious roasted tomato basil soup! Feel free to add a dollop of cream or sprinkle some extra basil on top if you’re feeling fancy.
Enjoy every mouthful of this comforting bowl of goodness!
You Must Know
- Roasted Tomato Basil Soup delivers warmth and comfort, perfect for chilly evenings
- The fresh basil aroma mingling with roasted tomatoes creates a symphony of flavors that dances in your mouth
- This soup is not just delicious; it’s a bowlful of nostalgic memories, especially when paired with crispy bread
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting your tomatoes to enhance their natural sweetness. While they roast, sauté onions and garlic to develop a rich flavor base before blending everything together for that perfect creamy texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out fresh basil for other herbs like thyme or oregano. You can also add a splash of cream or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an unexpected twist that adds personality to the soup.
Storing & Reheating
Store your roasted tomato basil soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove for best results, adding a bit of water if it thickens too much.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use ripe, seasonal tomatoes for maximum flavor; they’ll make all the difference in taste
- Don’t skip roasting—this step caramelizes the sugars, creating depth
- Always taste before serving; adjusting seasoning can elevate your soup from good to unforgettable
A friend once told me my roasted tomato basil soup felt like a cozy hug on a cold day, and honestly, that’s exactly what I strive for every time I make it.
FAQ
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes work well too; just ensure they are high-quality for best flavor.
How can I make this soup vegan?
Simply omit any cream and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegan version.
What should I serve with roasted tomato basil soup?
Grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread pair perfectly with this warm and comforting soup.
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines the rich sweetness of roasted tomatoes with the freshness of basil. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup is simplicity at its best—easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Enjoy it as an appetizer or main course, paired with crusty bread for a delightful meal that warms both body and soul.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- 2 cups vegetable stock
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange halved tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; drizzle with olive oil.
- Add garlic cloves and onion around the tomatoes; season with salt and pepper.
- Roast for 30 minutes until tomatoes are blistered.
- Transfer roasted ingredients to a blender, add basil and vegetable stock, then blend until smooth.
- Pour mixture into a pot and simmer for 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
