Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the soul, this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is just what you need! There’s something magical about the deep, rich flavor that comes from roasting tomatoes. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to serve something comforting and delicious. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a classic grilled cheese sandwich, making it a beloved favorite in our home.

This soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together with simple steps, making it perfect for novice cooks or busy parents.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves tomato soup! It’s a classic dish that kids and adults alike can enjoy.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for later.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted tomatoes and fresh basil creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve it with grilled cheese, crusty bread, or even a simple salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these wholesome ingredients is half the fun! They are simple yet packed with flavor and goodness.

• 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 Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add some spice: For a kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the onions.
• Go vegan: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version that’s equally creamy.
• Herb infusion: Try adding different herbs like oregano or parsley to enhance the flavor profile.
• Veggie boost: Toss in some chopped carrots or bell peppers when sautéing the onions for extra nutrition.

How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Spread those beautiful Roma tomato halves on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Roasting them for an hour intensifies their sweetness. You’ll love how they transform into juicy little gems!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the remaining oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. This brings out their natural sweetness! Then stir in minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper—sautéing these together releases such wonderful aromas.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Next, add in the crushed San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and sugar to your pot. Lower the heat and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes. This step allows all those delightful flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to add those roasted tomatoes along with chicken stock into the pot. Let it simmer for another 30 minutes while occasionally stirring—it gives time for all those delicious flavors to deepen even further!

Step 5: Purée Your Soup

Using an immersion blender, purée your soup right in the pot until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer batches into a blender or food processor. Just remember to let it cool slightly before blending to avoid any spills—safety first!

Step 6: Finish It Off

Finally, stir in that lovely heavy cream until well combined. This adds richness and makes your soup feel luxurious!

Step 7: Serve with Croutons

For an extra touch, make mini croutons by cutting small bread pieces into cubes, tossing them with some oil and diced garlic and basil before baking at 400°F for about 7 minutes. These little bites are perfect on top of your soup!

Serve immediately while it’s warm, inviting everyone to dig in! Enjoy this comforting bowl of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup—it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home just like it is in mine!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Making the perfect Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is all about attention to detail, and these tips will help you create a delightful bowl that warms the heart.

• Choose ripe tomatoes: Using fresh, ripe Roma tomatoes enhances the soup’s flavor, providing a naturally sweet and rich base.

• Don’t rush the roasting: Allowing the tomatoes to roast for a full hour caramelizes their sugars, deepening their flavor and creating a lovely texture.

• Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, or even add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like some heat. This customization ensures the soup meets your palate perfectly.

• Blend thoroughly: A smooth purée creates a luxurious mouthfeel. Make sure to blend until silky, using an immersion blender or traditional blender.

• Experiment with herbs: While basil is classic, adding fresh oregano or parsley can introduce new layers of flavor that elevate your soup.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Serving Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful experience that allows you to get creative! The vibrant color and aroma make it an inviting dish for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole basil leaves on top not only look beautiful but also enhance the aromatic qualities of the soup.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth while making each bowl look gourmet.
• Shredded cheese alternative: If you’re looking for added creaminess without dairy, try using a plant-based cheese shreds sprinkled on top for a delightful finish.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Nothing pairs better with tomato soup than a crispy grilled cheese sandwich. Try using whole-grain bread with your favorite cheese alternative for a comforting combo.

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread complements the soup beautifully. The buttery garlic flavors are irresistible when dipped into the warm, flavorful bowl.

• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and light vinaigrette balances out the rich flavors of the soup. Consider adding cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for crunch.

• Veggie Sticks with Hummus: For a lighter side option, serve crunchy carrot and celery sticks alongside creamy hummus. The freshness contrasts well with the warm soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to enjoy an amazing bowl of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup that’s perfect for any gathering or cozy night in!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If you have croutons, store them separately in a zip-top bag to maintain their crunch.

Freezing

• Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For easy portion sizes, consider freezing in muffin tins and transferring to bags once solid.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Use a microwave if you’re short on time; heat in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this comforting soup!

Can I make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup without cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

What can I serve with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches or a fresh garden salad. Add crusty bread for dipping, too!

How long does Roasted Tomato Basil Soup last in the fridge?

You can store this delicious soup in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just remember to keep it in an airtight container!

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

Yes, using fresh tomatoes is not only possible but also delightful! Just ensure they are ripe for maximum flavor. You might need to adjust seasoning slightly based on their sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is truly a warm hug in a bowl! Its rich flavors and comforting aroma will surely make it a favorite in your household. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Feel free to share your own spins on this recipe or any memories it brings back—happy cooking!