Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

If you’re looking for the perfect comfort food, look no further than this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. It’s a dish that warms the heart and fills the soul, making it a go-to choice for everything from busy weeknights to cozy family gatherings. The rich, deep flavors of roasted tomatoes blend beautifully with fresh basil, creating a symphony of taste that pairs perfectly with a classic grilled cheese sandwich. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a cherished favorite in your kitchen!

This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. You’ll find that it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or enjoying it during a sunny afternoon picnic. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: Roasting the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness, resulting in a rich and savory soup.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip this up without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this comforting dish—especially when paired with cheesy toast!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make it uniquely yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready to gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. Each one plays an essential role in building flavor and texture.

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 its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

• Add some spice: Throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
• Make it vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a creamy texture without dairy.
• Incorporate veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or carrots while sautéing for added nutrition.
• Herb swap: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or parsley if basil isn’t your thing.

How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spread those lovely halved Roma tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle them with extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Roasting these beauties is key; it intensifies their flavor and gives your soup that warm depth we all crave.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While your tomatoes roast away for about an hour, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent—about 5 minutes. This step is important because caramelizing the onions brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Build Flavor

Stir in minced garlic, fresh thyme, Kosher salt, and ground black pepper into the pot. Sauté for another minute until fragrant. The aroma at this stage will have everyone asking what’s cooking!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Next up! Add the crushed San Marzano tomatoes along with roughly chopped basil and sugar to balance out acidity. Lower the heat and let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes—this allows those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Mix It All Together

Once the roasted tomatoes are ready, add them along with chicken stock into your pot of simmering goodness. Let it all bubble away for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where all those wonderful flavors come together!

Step 6: Purée The Soup

Now comes the fun part! Using an immersion blender makes puréeing easy right in the pot; if you don’t have one, carefully transfer batches to a blender instead. Don’t rush this step—it’s what gives your soup that silky-smooth texture!

Step 7: Finish It Off

Stir in the heavy cream for added richness before serving. If you’re feeling fancy, consider making mini croutons by cutting small cubes of bread tossed with oil, garlic, and basil; bake at 400°F for about 7 minutes until golden brown!

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Top each bowl with those delightful croutons right before serving and enjoy every comforting spoonful! Your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup will be ready to warm hearts and bellies alike!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful experience, and these tips will ensure your soup is absolutely perfect every time!

• Choose ripe tomatoes: Using fresh, ripe Roma tomatoes enhances the flavor of the soup significantly. Look for tomatoes that are slightly soft to the touch and have a rich aroma. This will give your soup that deep, robust taste you crave.

• Don’t skip roasting: Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth to the soup. It’s a simple step that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference. Tasting as you go can help you discover the perfect balance of flavors.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil not only adds flavor but also a lovely aroma to your soup. If possible, use freshly chopped herbs right before serving for maximum freshness and potency.

• Let it simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer gives all the flavors time to meld together beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer and more cohesive the taste will be—so don’t rush this step!

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

The presentation of your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup can truly elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this comforting dish with style.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves placed on top of each bowl not only look beautiful but also enhance the fresh basil flavor in the soup.
• Drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving adds richness and a glossy finish.
• Parmesan cheese (dairy alternative): For those who enjoy a cheesy touch, sprinkle some grated dairy-free Parmesan on top for an added layer of flavor without compromising dietary choices.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The classic pairing! The crispy, melty goodness of grilled cheese complements the smooth texture of tomato basil soup perfectly—making every spoonful even better.

• Crispy Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic and olive oil is another wonderful option. Its crunchiness contrasts delightfully with the creamy soup while enhancing its flavors.

• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots not only add color but also make for a wholesome side that pairs well with the warm soup.

Enjoy creating this delicious Roasted Tomato Basil Soup! It’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen as you share it with friends and family around your dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is perfect for meal prep! It’s easy to make a big batch and store it for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

If you have questions about this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

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

Absolutely! Using canned San Marzano tomatoes is a great alternative. They add a rich flavor without needing to roast fresh tomatoes, making preparation even easier.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. It’s great for meal prep!

What can I serve with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

This comforting soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or even a fresh salad. Enjoy it however you like!

Can I make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup vegan?

Yes! To make this soup vegan, simply replace the butter with additional olive oil and use a plant-based cream alternative. It will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is truly special—it’s warm, inviting, and bursting with flavor. I hope you find joy in making this comforting recipe that warms both the heart and soul. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with family and friends!