This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor. The act of roasting tomatoes elevates this dish, giving it a rich depth that makes it a standout choice for cozy dinners or casual gatherings. This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, making it a beloved favorite for family meals. Whether you’re enjoying a chilly evening or hosting a gathering, this soup fits every occasion beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: Roasting the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness, resulting in a rich and savory taste.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup without any fuss.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a starter or main course, it adapts well to various meal settings.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with fresh ingredients, it’s both satisfying and nutritious.
- Freezable: Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals later on.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience in the kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Baking sheet
- Immersion blender (or regular blender)
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly; they retain heat well.
- Immersion blender: Makes puréeing easy without transferring hot soup; less mess!
- Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting tomatoes evenly, allowing for optimal caramelization.
Ingredients
Fresh Ingredients
- 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
How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F. This will prepare it for roasting the tomatoes perfectly.
Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes
- Spread the sliced tomato halves on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle them with olive oil.
- Sprinkle with Kosher salt and ground black pepper.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour until they are caramelized and tender.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Herbs
Stir in minced garlic, fresh thyme, Kosher salt, and black pepper. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Combine Tomatoes and Simmer
Add crushed tomatoes from the can along with chopped basil and sugar into the pot. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to meld flavors.
Step 6: Incorporate Roasted Tomatoes
Carefully add the roasted tomatoes along with chicken stock into the pot. Let it simmer for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 7: Purée the Soup
Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, transfer batches carefully to a regular blender.
Step 8: Finish with Cream
Return the puréed soup to the pot and stir in heavy cream for that luscious finish.
Step 9: Prepare Mini Croutons (Optional)
For added texture:
Cut small cubes from bread.
Toss with oil, diced garlic, and some basil.
Bake at 400°F for about 7 minutes until golden brown.
Step 10: Serve
Ladle your warm Roasted Tomato Basil Soup into bowls. Top with croutons if desired. Serve immediately!
Enjoy your hearty bowl of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup!
How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a simple lunch. Here are some delightful ways to serve it up.
With Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
- A classic pairing that never disappoints. The melty cheese complements the rich flavors of the soup perfectly.
Topped with Fresh Basil
- Adding fresh basil leaves not only enhances the presentation but also boosts the herbal notes in your soup.
Drizzled with Olive Oil
- A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top adds richness and depth to each bowl.
Alongside Crusty Bread
- Serve with slices of crusty baguette or sourdough for dipping. This combination makes each bite even more satisfying.
With Mini Croutons
- Homemade croutons add a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the soup.
How to Perfect Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, consider these tips.
- Use Ripe Tomatoes: Choosing ripe Roma tomatoes will provide a sweeter and more robust flavor profile.
- Don’t Skip the Roasting: Roasting enhances the natural sweetness of tomatoes, giving your soup a deeper taste.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Always use fresh basil and thyme for maximum flavor; dried herbs won’t have the same impact.
- Blend Carefully: For a smoother soup, blend thoroughly but be cautious if transferring to a blender to avoid splashes.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or sugar as needed after blending to suit your preferences.
- Garnish Creatively: Experiment with toppings like croutons or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The ultimate comforting combination that balances the soup’s acidity with creamy cheese.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch, making it a perfect counterpart to the warm soup.
- Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, bruschetta complements the flavors of the soup beautifully.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: This indulgent side is perfect for dipping into your soup while adding a savory touch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrients to your meal, enhancing its overall appeal.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds protein and fiber while keeping the meal healthy and balanced.
- Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with grains, beans, or meat for a heartier option alongside your soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a delicious dish, but certain mistakes can hinder its flavor. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- Using Unripe Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are essential for the best flavor. Choose tomatoes that are deep red and slightly soft for optimal sweetness.
- Skipping the Roasting Step: Roasting enhances the depth of flavor. Never skip this step; it makes all the difference in taste.
- Not Seasoning Enough: Proper seasoning elevates the soup. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper during cooking for balanced flavor.
- Over-Blending the Soup: A little texture can enhance your soup’s appeal. Avoid blending too long to keep some body in your soup.
- Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds a bright finish. Don’t forget to add it at the end to preserve its vibrant flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of containers for expansion when freezing.
Reheating Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat until warm, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Roasted Tomato Basil Soup.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes! Using high-quality canned tomatoes can save time and still give great flavor.
How can I customize my Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
Feel free to add ingredients like carrots or bell peppers for extra sweetness and nutrition.
Is Roasted Tomato Basil Soup vegan-friendly?
You can make it vegan by substituting heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.
What goes well with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic pairing that complements this comforting soup perfectly!
How do I store leftovers of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze them for later use.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the seasonings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its rich flavors paired with crusty bread or grilled cheese!
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Indulge in the warmth of our Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, a delightful blend of flavors that transforms simple ingredients into a cozy meal. This soup showcases the natural sweetness of roasted Roma tomatoes, enhanced by aromatic garlic and fresh herbs. It’s rich and creamy, making it perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings with family and friends. Pair it with classic grilled cheese sandwiches or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying dish that warms the soul.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting, Sautéing, Blending
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 9 Roma tomatoes
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 yellow onion
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme
- 1 tsp Kosher salt
- 1 can San Marzano tomatoes (28 oz)
- 1 cup fresh basil
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Arrange sliced Roma tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for about 1 hour until caramelized.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté diced onion until soft.
- Add minced garlic and thyme; cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed San Marzano tomatoes, chopped basil, and sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add roasted tomatoes and chicken stock; simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender.
- Stir in heavy cream before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
