There’s something magical about a bowl of roasted tomato basil soup. Just imagine the rich, warm aroma wafting from the kitchen as you take that first spoonful. The velvety texture dances on your taste buds, complimented by the sweetness of roasted tomatoes and the aromatic punch of fresh basil. It’s pure comfort in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings when you want nothing more than to snuggle up with a good book (or binge-watch your favorite show).
I fondly remember the first time I made this soup; my friends were over for dinner, and I was trying to impress them with my cooking prowess. As the soup simmered, I could feel their anticipation rise. One sip turned into another, and suddenly, we were all fighting over the last drop! Moments like these remind me why sharing food is such a delightful experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This roasted tomato basil soup is incredibly easy to make, even for kitchen novices
- The flavor profile is a delightful balance of sweet and savory that warms the soul
- With its vibrant red color and fresh basil garnish, it’s visually stunning on any table setting
- Enjoy it as a starter or main dish—it’s versatile enough for any occasion!
The last time I served this soup, my kids declared it “the best thing ever,” which is saying a lot considering their usual diet consists of pizza and mac ‘n’ cheese.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ripe Tomatoes: Choose plump, juicy tomatoes for maximum sweetness and flavor; heirloom varieties are excellent choices.
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Fresh Basil: Opt for vibrant green leaves; they’ll add a fragrant aroma that elevates your soup.
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Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness when sautéed; it creates a flavorful base for your soup.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring pungency and depth; don’t skimp on this vital ingredient!
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Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while still delivering rich flavor.
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Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances richness; use it generously for roasting your veggies.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by washing your ripe tomatoes thoroughly. Slice them in half and spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over them generously.
Roast Those Tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pop those tomatoes in for about 25-30 minutes until they’re beautifully caramelized and bursting with flavor.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle more olive oil. Add diced onions and minced garlic; cook until the onions become translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes.
Add Roasted Tomatoes & Broth: Once the onions are ready, add in those heavenly roasted tomatoes along with vegetable broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer so all those flavors meld beautifully.
Basil Time!: Stir in freshly chopped basil leaves towards the end of cooking—this keeps their vibrant flavor intact. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Blend It Up!: Finally, remove from heat. Using an immersion blender or regular blender, puree until smooth. Taste test and adjust seasoning as needed—salt and pepper might be just what you need!
Serve hot with crusty bread or grilled cheese on the side for an extra treat!
You Must Know
- Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is not just a delicious treat; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The aroma of roasting tomatoes and fresh basil fills your kitchen, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere
- This recipe is simple yet satisfying, perfect for any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting your tomatoes and garlic to enhance their sweetness. While they roast, sauté onions and then blend everything together for a creamy texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out basil for other herbs like thyme or oregano. For added richness, throw in a splash of cream or coconut milk while blending.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat to preserve flavor and consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always choose ripe tomatoes for the best flavor; they make all the difference in this soup
- Use fresh basil instead of dried for a more vibrant taste
- Don’t rush the blending process; let it become velvety smooth for that perfect texture
Creating this soup reminds me of cozy Sundays spent with my family, gathered around the table enjoying good food and laughter.
FAQ
Can I use canned tomatoes for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
Absolutely! Canned tomatoes are convenient and still provide great flavor when fresh ones aren’t available.
How can I make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup vegan?
Simply omit any dairy ingredients and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a tasty vegan version.
What can I serve with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
Pair it with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread for a classic comfort meal that everyone loves.
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 (approximately) 1x
Description
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines the sweetness of roasted tomatoes with the aromatic freshness of basil. Perfect for chilly evenings, this comforting soup is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Serve it as a starter or main dish alongside crusty bread or grilled cheese for a delightful meal that brings everyone together.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange halved tomatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Roast tomatoes for 25-30 minutes until caramelized.
- In a large pot, heat more olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add roasted tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Stir in chopped basil and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting/Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
