Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that warms the soul. Perfect for chilly nights or as a delightful starter, this recipe combines the rich flavors of roasted tomatoes with aromatic basil. It’s easy to make and can elevate any meal, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this soup ready in no time.
• Rich Flavor: Roasting the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the soup.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or alongside your favorite sandwich.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying.
• Customizable: Adjust creaminess and acidity to your preference with optional ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, gather the essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Large pot
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Blender (or immersion blender)
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the tomatoes evenly until caramelized.
• Large pot: Necessary for simmering the soup ingredients together for optimal flavor blending.
• Blender: Helps achieve a creamy consistency by pureeing the roasted tomato mixture smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 lbs of Roma tomatoes (halved)
• 1 large onion (finely chopped)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Broth & Seasoning

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (optional, to reduce acidity)

Adding Creaminess

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that your tomatoes roast evenly.

Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes

Place halved Roma tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then toss to coat. Spread them out evenly on the sheet. Roast in the oven for about 30 minutes or until they are caramelized and tender.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large pot over medium heat, add remaining olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onions. Sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

After roasting, add the tomatoes to the pot along with chicken or vegetable broth. If desired, sprinkle in sugar and baking soda. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 5: Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender or regular blender, carefully puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, allow it to cool slightly before blending in batches.

Step 6: Add Fresh Basil and Cream

Stir in chopped basil leaves. If you prefer a creamy texture, mix in heavy cream at this stage. Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Ladle your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy this comforting dish warm!

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a versatile dish that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. These serving suggestions will elevate your soup experience and make it even more delightful for your guests or family.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping. The bread absorbs the flavors beautifully, adding texture to each spoonful.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top before serving. The cheese melts slightly into the hot soup, creating a rich and creamy finish.

Garnished with Fresh Basil

• Add a few fresh basil leaves as a garnish right before serving. This enhances the aroma and adds a burst of freshness.

Accompanied by Grilled Cheese

• Serve alongside a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The combination of melty cheese and savory soup makes for a comforting meal.

With a Side Salad

• A light green salad complements the rich flavors of the soup. Consider a simple mixed greens salad drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top adds an extra layer of flavor. It also gives the soup an appealing finish.

How to Perfect Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose ripe tomatoes: Using fresh, ripe Roma tomatoes ensures maximum sweetness and flavor in your soup.
• Roast thoroughly: Roast your tomatoes until they are caramelized to enhance their natural sugars, adding depth to the soup’s flavor.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and optional sugar as needed during cooking for balanced flavors.
• Blend well: For a smooth consistency, blend the soup until fully pureed. This step creates that creamy texture many love.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds brightness compared to dried herbs, making a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Experiment with creaminess: For an extra creamy soup, stir in heavy cream just before serving or use a splash of coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Pairing side dishes with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic choice that pairs perfectly with tomato soup for comfort food lovers.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing balances the richness of the soup.
3. Pesto Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in pesto adds an aromatic twist that complements the tomato flavors.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Baked peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa offer heartiness alongside your light soup.
5. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, this appetizer mirrors the main dish while providing crunch.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that echoes the flavors in your soup.
7. Olive Tapenade Crostini: Savory olive tapenade on crostini provides a salty contrast to the sweet tomato base.
8. Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables provide a robust complement to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup can be a simple and rewarding task, but there are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Using unripe tomatoes: Unripe tomatoes lack flavor. Always choose ripe, juicy Roma tomatoes for the best results.
• Skipping the roasting step: Roasting enhances the soup’s flavor. Don’t skip roasting the tomatoes, onions, and garlic for a richer taste.
• Over seasoning: Adding too much salt can overpower the dish. Season gradually and taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance.
• Not blending enough: A smooth texture is key for this soup. Blend thoroughly until creamy; chunky soup may not deliver the same experience.
• Ignoring acidity: Tomatoes can be acidic. If your soup tastes too tangy, add a pinch of sugar or baking soda to balance it out.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers to allow for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Roasted Tomato Basil Soup.

How do I enhance the flavor of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

You can enhance flavors by adding spices like oregano or red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs added just before serving also provide a delicious aromatic finish.

Can I make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and omit heavy cream for a completely vegan version that still tastes great.

What can I serve with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

Pair this soup with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s satisfying and healthy.

How long does it take to make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

The total time is around 1 hour: 20 minutes prep and about 50 minutes cooking time, making it a quick option for weeknight dinners.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with various toppings like croutons or extra basil. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with your favorite sides, this recipe is sure to impress!