Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Why Make This Recipe

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a warm and comforting dish that celebrates the rich flavors of fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil. It’s a perfect meal for chilly days or a cozy night in. This soup is not only delicious, but it is also simple to make, making it suitable for cooks of all skill levels.

With its vibrant taste and creamy texture, it’s an ideal choice for families, gatherings, or even just a personal treat. Plus, it’s a great way to use garden-fresh tomatoes when they’re in season.

Equipment Needed For Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

To prepare Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. A large baking sheet is essential for roasting the vegetables. You’ll also need a blender or an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.

A large pot will help you combine all the ingredients for cooking. Don’t forget to have measuring cups and spoons handy, along with a cutting board and a sharp knife for chopping the veggies. Having these tools will streamline the cooking process!

What You Need to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

• 3 pounds fresh tomatoes (any variety)
• 1 large onion (quartered)
• 2 carrots (roughly chopped)
• 2 to 3 heads of garlic (slice the tops off to expose the cloves)
• Olive oil (for roasting)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 28 oz can of whole or crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken stock (or vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian)
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves (loosely packed)
• Optional: heavy cream or coconut milk for swirling
• Garnish: more basil
• Olive oil, Parmesan (optional)

How to Cook Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Step by Step

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your vegetables roast nicely. While the oven heats, prepare the fresh tomatoes. If you have whole tomatoes, you can simply wash and slice them in half. For cherry tomatoes, just wash them and leave them whole.

Take your large baking sheet and arrange the tomatoes cut-side up. Add the quartered onion, roughly chopped carrots, and heads of garlic onto the pan. Drizzle everything with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the veggies around to evenly coat them in oil and seasoning.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 30-40 minutes. You want the vegetables to become tender and slightly caramelized, as this enhances their flavors. Check on them halfway through, and stir them around if needed.

Once the roasting is done, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Allow the vegetables to cool slightly before moving forward. At this point, you will prepare the blender for the next step.

In a large pot, combine the roasted vegetables along with any juices left on the baking sheet. Pour in the canned tomatoes (you can crush them in the pot if you prefer) and chicken stock or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let it cook for another 10-15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

Next, it’s time to blend the soup. If you’re using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool a bit for safe blending. Carefully pour small batches into the blender, and blend until smooth. If you have an immersion blender, you can blend the soup directly in the pot for convenience.

After blending, return the soup to the pot. Add the fresh basil leaves and stir well. If you want a creamier texture, feel free to swirl in some heavy cream or coconut milk. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Allow the soup to heat through once more, and then it’s ready to serve.

How To Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is straightforward but involves a few steps to get everything just right. Start by prepping the vegetables, ensuring they are washed and chopped according to the recipe.

As you roast the vegetables, keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn. The aroma of the roasted tomatoes and garlic will fill your kitchen, making the wait worthwhile. After blending the mixture, adding fresh basil will elevate the taste, giving the soup that fresh pop of flavor.

You can enhance the soup’s creaminess with coconut milk or heavy cream, depending on your dietary preferences. This process creates a rich and luscious soup ready to warm your soul.

How To Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

When serving Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, it’s lovely to add a bit of flair. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a drizzle of olive oil or a swirl of cream. Adding some fresh basil leaves on top adds color and enhances the smell.

For those who enjoy a cheesy touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over each bowl. This melted goodness complements the soup beautifully. Serve the soup hot, accompanied by slices of crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic combination!

What To Serve With Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup can stand alone as a satisfying meal, but it pairs beautifully with several sides. Consider serving it with warm, crusty bread or a baguette that’s perfect for dipping.

Grilled cheese sandwiches are also a popular choice, bringing a comforting touch to your meal. Fresh salads with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.

For a heartier option, serve it alongside a charcuterie board filled with cheeses, meats, and fresh fruits to create a delightful spread.

How To Store Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

If you have leftovers, storing Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is quite simple. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

To freeze the soup, pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Be sure to leave some space for the soup to expand as it freezes. This way, you can enjoy this comforting dish later on. Frozen soup is best used within three months for optimal taste.

When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.

Tips To Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

To make the best Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, consider a few handy tips. First, always taste and adjust the seasonings as you go. This allows you to customize the flavor to your liking.

Using a variety of tomatoes can also enhance the overall flavor of the soup. Mixing small and heirloom tomatoes will give you a beautiful depth of taste.

If fresh basil leaves aren’t available, dried basil can serve as a substitute. However, fresh herbs will always provide a brighter taste. Before blending, feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.

Variation

You can easily make variations of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup based on your preferences or ingredients you have on hand. For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes during the roasting stage.

Another tasty variation includes adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

You can also go for a roasted red pepper and tomato version by including jarred roasted red peppers in the blend, creating a different twist.

Best Time To Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is best when tomatoes are in season, typically from late summer to early fall. During these months, tomatoes are fresher, sweeter, and bursting with flavor.

However, this soup is perfect year-round due to its comforting nature. It’s ideal for chilly weather or any time you crave something warm and delicious.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

While making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, you can avoid a few common pitfalls. One mistake is overcooking the vegetables, which might lead to burnt flavors. Watch them closely while roasting.

Another mistake is not blending enough. To achieve the desired creamy texture, make sure the mixture is blended thoroughly. Chunky soup is less satisfying for those looking for a smooth experience.

Lastly, always taste as you go to ensure the seasoning is just right. Adjust according to your personal tastes, and there won’t be any disappointment.

Nutritional Notes

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup packs a nutritious punch! It’s low in calories, high in vitamins, and provides a boost of antioxidants due to the tomatoes and basil.

By using vegetable broth, you can keep it vegetarian while adding protein via optional garnishes like cheese. It’s packed with dietary fiber from the vegetables, helping with digestion and overall health.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, you can substitute with canned whole or crushed tomatoes. Just remember to adjust the seasoning since canned tomatoes often have added salt.

Is it necessary to roast the vegetables?
Roasting the vegetables enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor. However, if you’re short on time, you can sauté them in a pot until softened instead.

Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Simply replace chicken stock with vegetable broth and skip the heavy cream or use coconut milk as a substitute for a rich, creamy texture.

Conclusion

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful dish that combines simplicity and flavor beautifully. With fresh ingredients, minimal preparation, and comforting results, it’s the perfect recipe for anyone looking to make a cozy meal at home.

Whether served alone or with delicious sides, this soup is sure to warm hearts as well as bellies. So gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a nourishing bowl of this fantastic soup!