Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms both the heart and the soul, this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is it! There’s something so comforting about a bowl of freshly made soup, especially when it’s filled with the rich flavors of roasted tomatoes and fragrant basil. I absolutely love making this soup on busy weeknights or serving it at family gatherings. It pairs perfectly with a classic grilled cheese sandwich, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.

This recipe brings together simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, so you can enjoy a homemade meal without spending all day in the kitchen. Let me share with you why this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup will quickly become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious soup ready to serve.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the smooth texture and rich flavor, making it perfect for everyone.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this soup in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: Roasting the tomatoes elevates the taste, providing depth that you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, we’re using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh Vegetables

• 9 Roma tomatoes (sliced lengthwise)
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 cup basil (fresh, roughly chopped)

Pantry Staples

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (minced)
• 1 tsp Kosher salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp sugar

Tomato Base

• 1 28 oz. can San Marzano tomatoes (crushed)

Broth & Cream

• 2 cups chicken stock
• 2/3 cup heavy cream

Variations

This recipe is flexible, allowing you to make it your own! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
• Swap the Cream: For a lighter version, use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or parsley for varied flavors.

How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This step is crucial because roasting the tomatoes will enhance their natural sweetness and deepen their flavor.

Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes

Spread the sliced Roma tomatoes on a baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper before roasting them for one hour. This step creates that robust flavor we love in roasted tomato dishes!

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, melt your butter (or use more olive oil!). Add the diced onion and sauté for about five minutes until they become translucent. This brings out their sweetness, making your soup even more delicious.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Herbs

Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté for another minute until fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

Step 5: Combine Tomatoes and Simmer

Add the crushed San Marzano tomatoes along with basil and sugar to your pot. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about ten minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld wonderfully together.

Step 6: Mix in Stock & Roasted Tomatoes

Now it’s time to add both the chicken stock and those beautifully roasted tomatoes into the pot. Let everything simmer for about 30 minutes while stirring occasionally; this is when magic happens!

Step 7: Purée Your Soup

Use an immersion blender to purée your soup until smooth or carefully transfer batches into a blender or food processor if that’s what you have on hand. Return it back to the pot once blended—this gives you that lovely creamy texture.

Step 8: Stir in Cream

Finally, stir in your heavy cream which adds richness to our Roasted Tomato Basil Soup.

Step 9: Make Mini Croutons

For some fun crunch, cut up small pieces of bread into cubes. Toss them with olive oil, diced garlic, and basil before baking at 400°F for about seven minutes until golden brown.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle your warm soup into bowls and top each serving with those delightful croutons. Serve immediately and watch as everyone gathers around for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Making the perfect Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is all about those little details that elevate the dish to new heights. Here are some pro tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time!

• Choose ripe tomatoes: Using ripe, in-season tomatoes enhances the flavor of your soup significantly, giving it that rich, natural sweetness that makes each spoonful memorable.
• Don’t skip the roasting: Roasting the tomatoes caramelizes their natural sugars and deepens their flavor. This step is key to achieving that irresistible depth in your soup.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Don’t hesitate to tweak the salt and pepper levels as you cook. Always taste before serving to make sure it has just the right balance.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic touch that dried herbs simply can’t replicate. Adding it towards the end keeps its flavor vibrant in the soup.
• Blend for a creamy texture: For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or blend in batches. This will give you that luscious texture that’s so comforting on chilly days.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Serving Roasted Tomato Basil Soup can be just as delightful as making it! Presenting this dish with thoughtful touches can turn a simple meal into a lovely dining experience. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves can add a pop of color and freshness on top of your soup.
• Drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle provides a beautiful sheen and an extra layer of richness.
• Shaved Parmesan cheese: While avoiding animal-derived gelatin, consider using plant-based Parmesan for a nutty flavor boost.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The classic pairing—crispy bread and melty cheese complement the soup perfectly, providing contrasting textures.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup while adding freshness.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is always a hit! It’s perfect for dipping into your warm bowl of goodness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional flavors and nutrients to your meal, making it even more satisfying.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup with these thoughtful serving suggestions! Each bite is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making your busy days a little easier and tastier.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (leaving some room for expansion).
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious soup!

What makes Roasted Tomato Basil Soup so flavorful?

Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor, which combines beautifully with fresh basil and aromatic herbs.

Can I make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative for a lighter and dairy-free option while still enjoying that creamy texture.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup can last up to 5 days in the fridge. Just remember to cool it completely before storing!

Can I add other vegetables to my Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in veggies like bell peppers or carrots during cooking for extra flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is truly special; it’s comforting, rich, and full of vibrant flavors that warm your soul. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or enjoying it solo, it’s sure to bring a smile. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your delicious results!