Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul. This recipe combines the rich flavors of sun-ripened tomatoes with the aromatic freshness of basil, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner option, this soup delivers on taste without requiring extensive culinary skills. The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes while infusing them with a smoky depth. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ripe tomatoes from your garden or farmer’s market. In just under an hour, you can have a pot of homemade soup that not only tastes great but also fills your kitchen with an enticing aroma. Serve with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic pairing that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
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Ingredients for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Tomatoes: Use ripe tomatoes such as Roma or vine-ripened varieties for the best flavor
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Choose vibrant green leaves; they add brightness to your soup
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; yellow onions work well in this recipe
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the overall taste; avoid using pre-minced garlic for better flavor
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil provides richness and depth when roasting the vegetables
- Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control salt levels while adding depth to the soup
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in your dish
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Tomatoes and Onion
Cut fresh tomatoes in half and place them cut-side up on the baking sheet. Slice the onion into wedges and add them alongside the tomatoes.
Step 3: Season and Roast
Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes and onion. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
Step 4: Sauté Garlic
In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash more olive oil. Once heated, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about one minute.
Step 5: Blend Ingredients
Remove roasted vegetables from oven and add them into the pot along with vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer before blending until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender.
Step 6: Add Fresh Basil
Stir in chopped fresh basil after blending. Simmer for another five minutes to meld flavors together.
Transfer to bowls and enjoy warm!
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Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Select Quality Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes yield better flavor; choose them based on color and firmness.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer thicker soup, reduce broth; for thinner texture, add more.
- Add Creaminess: For extra creaminess, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving.
How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
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Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the soup up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator after cooling. You can also roast the tomatoes ahead of time, which takes about 30 minutes, and store them for later use.
- Storing: Leftover Roasted Tomato Basil Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for about three minutes, stirring halfway through.
Suggestions for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Choose the Right Tomatoes
Using the right type of tomatoes is crucial for a flavorful roasted tomato basil soup. Opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best taste. Varieties like Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work well due to their robust flavor and lower moisture content. Avoid using overripe or mealy tomatoes, as they can negatively affect the soup’s texture and taste. Fresh, quality ingredients will enhance your dish, making it richer and more satisfying. Always inspect your tomatoes before purchasing to ensure you select only the best.
Don’t Skip the Roasting Step
Roasting tomatoes is essential in developing deep flavors in your soup. Many home cooks might be tempted to skip this step for convenience, but it’s worth the extra time. Roasting caramelizes natural sugars and enhances the umami flavor profile of the tomatoes. It also adds a lovely smoky note that elevates your soup. Bake them at a high temperature until they are charred and fragrant. This simple step makes all the difference in achieving that comforting, hearty taste.
Seasoning Matters
Proper seasoning is vital when preparing roasted tomato basil soup. Begin by salting your tomatoes before roasting, as this draws out excess moisture while concentrating their flavor. After blending, taste your soup and adjust seasoning accordingly with salt, pepper, or additional herbs if needed. Don’t forget to use fresh basil; it should be added toward the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant color and flavor. Seasoning enhances every bite, ensuring a deliciously balanced dish.
Use Quality Broth
The broth you choose plays a significant role in determining the overall flavor of your roasted tomato basil soup. Homemade broth is ideal because it allows you to control ingredients and avoid preservatives found in store-bought versions. If you’re short on time, select high-quality vegetable or chicken broth with minimal additives. Using water instead of broth will dilute flavors significantly; therefore, always opt for a rich broth to create a depth of flavor that complements the roasted tomatoes.
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FAQs
What ingredients do I need for roasted tomato basil soup?
To prepare roasted tomato basil soup, gather fresh ripe tomatoes (like Roma), olive oil, garlic cloves, onion, fresh basil leaves, vegetable or chicken broth, salt, and pepper. You can include optional ingredients like cream for richness or red pepper flakes for heat. Using quality ingredients is key to achieving an aromatic and flavorful dish that impresses everyone at your table.
Can I make roasted tomato basil soup ahead of time?
Yes! Roasted tomato basil soup can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. In fact, many people find that flavors deepen after sitting overnight as they meld together beautifully. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water if needed to maintain consistency and prevent dryness during warming.
Can I freeze roasted tomato basil soup?
Absolutely! Freezing roasted tomato basil soup is an excellent way to preserve leftovers for future meals. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months without losing its flavor or texture. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy another comforting bowl.
How can I customize my roasted tomato basil soup?
There are many ways to customize your roasted tomato basil soup according to personal preferences or dietary needs. Consider adding additional vegetables like bell peppers or carrots during roasting for extra nutrition and sweetness. For those who enjoy creaminess, incorporate heavy cream or coconut milk after blending. You may also experiment with spices such as thyme or oregano for added depth; however, always taste as you go along to maintain balance!
Conclusion for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
In conclusion, preparing delicious roasted tomato basil soup requires attention to detail at every step from ingredient selection to seasoning adjustments. Choosing ripe tomatoes ensures maximum flavor while roasting brings out their natural sweetness. Remember not to overlook proper seasoning with quality broth enhancing every bite’s richness. By avoiding common mistakes mentioned above and experimenting with various customizations, you can create a delightful dish perfect for any occasion—whether cozying up on chilly nights or serving guests at dinner parties! Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 bowls 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, a perfect blend of sweet, sun-ripened tomatoes and aromatic basil. This easy recipe transforms fresh ingredients into a velvety soup that’s ideal for both cozy dinners and lunch gatherings. The roasting process intensifies the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a rich, smoky depth of flavor. In just under an hour, you can whip up this delightful dish that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich. Whether you’re using garden-fresh tomatoes or those from the market, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced into wedges
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange halved tomatoes cut-side up and onion wedges on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté minced garlic in a splash of olive oil until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add the roasted vegetables to the pot along with vegetable broth; bring to a simmer.
- Blend until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender. Stir in chopped basil and simmer for an additional five minutes.
Notes
Customize your soup by adding carrots or bell peppers during roasting for added sweetness.
For creaminess, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving.
Adjust broth quantity to achieve desired consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added sweetness, consider roasting bell peppers or carrots alongside the tomatoes. For creaminess, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk before serving. Adjust broth quantity based on your desired soup thickness.
