There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of rich and flavorful Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, especially when the weather starts to cool. The combination of roasted tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of garlic brings out a depth of flavor that’s both heartwarming and delightful. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a starter for a cozy dinner, this soup is a perfect fit.
In this article, we’ll guide you through making your own Roasted Tomato Basil Soup at home using fresh ingredients that elevate this dish beyond your ordinary canned tomato soup. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also healthy and packed with antioxidants from the tomatoes and basil. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Roast the Tomatoes?
Roasting the tomatoes for this soup brings out their natural sweetness and intensifies their flavor. When you roast tomatoes, they caramelize, breaking down the sugars in a way that adds a layer of complexity to the soup. The tomatoes’ acidity mellows out, creating a perfect balance with the fresh basil. Pair that with some roasted garlic, and you’ve got a match made in heaven!
Ingredients for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. You’ll find that with just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can make a soup that’s bursting with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes (Roma or plum work best)
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 cloves of garlic, unpeeled
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional for added depth)
- Heavy cream or coconut milk (for a creamy version)
For serving:
- Crusty bread or grilled cheese on the side
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this soup is straightforward and doesn’t require any special cooking skills. Here’s a step-by-step guide to whipping up the best Roasted Tomato Basil Soup in no time.
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the tomatoes to perfection without burning them.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
Slice the tomatoes in half and arrange them cut side up on a baking sheet. Add the quartered onions and garlic cloves to the sheet. Drizzle everything with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning will enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables.
3. Roast the Tomatoes and Garlic
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the tomatoes, onions, and garlic for about 35–40 minutes, or until they are caramelized and soft. The edges of the tomatoes will begin to blister, and the onions will turn golden brown. Roasting also softens the garlic, giving it a sweet and subtle flavor.
4. Blend the Soup
Once the vegetables are roasted, carefully remove the garlic from its skin and transfer all the ingredients to a blender. Add the fresh basil leaves and blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can pulse the blender a few times instead of blending it completely.
5. Simmer the Soup
Pour the blended mixture into a large pot over medium heat. Add the vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the balsamic vinegar if using—it adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that elevates the flavors. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Add Cream (Optional)
If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of the simmering process. This will give the soup a luxurious, velvety texture.
7. Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a few red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Tips for the Perfect Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
To make this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup even better, here are a few tips and tricks:
- Use ripe tomatoes: The riper the tomatoes, the sweeter and more flavorful your soup will be.
- Don’t skip the roasting step: Roasting the tomatoes and garlic is what gives this soup its deep, rich flavor.
- Make it vegan: Use vegetable broth and coconut milk for a fully vegan version of this soup.
- Add toppings: Garnish with fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, or even some parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a classic combination, serve it with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. The crispy bread and melted cheese are the perfect complement to the tangy tomato soup. You could also serve it with a side of crusty artisan bread or a fresh green salad for a lighter option.
If you want to get a bit more creative, top your soup with a dollop of pesto or a swirl of heavy cream for a fancier presentation. You can also sprinkle some homemade croutons or toasted pine nuts on top for added crunch.
Health Benefits of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
This soup isn’t just comforting—it’s also packed with nutrients. Tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to reduced risks of heart disease and cancer. Basil, on the other hand, is rich in vitamin K and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and boost immunity.
By roasting the tomatoes and using fresh, whole ingredients, you’re making a nutrient-dense meal that’s not only good for your soul but also great for your health.
FAQs
How can I make this soup creamier?
To make this soup creamier, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk during the simmering process. For an ultra-smooth texture, you can also strain the soup after blending.
Can I freeze Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
Yes, you can! This soup freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat it on the stove over low heat when ready to serve.
What kind of tomatoes are best for this recipe?
Roma or plum tomatoes are ideal for roasting because they have a lower water content, which results in a more concentrated flavor. However, any ripe, fresh tomatoes will work.
Can I use canned tomatoes?
While fresh tomatoes give the best flavor, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch. Just skip the roasting step and blend the canned tomatoes with the other ingredients.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, you can add a bit of broth or water to thin it out.
Can I make this soup spicy?
Yes, if you like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or even a chopped jalapeño when blending the ingredients.