Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is the ultimate comfort food. The rich, deep flavor from roasting the tomatoes makes this dish perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with friends. Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic meal that everyone will love. This soup is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: Roasting the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness, creating a soup that bursts with flavor.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a starter, main dish, or alongside sandwiches—this soup fits any meal plan.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, this soup offers a nutritious option without sacrificing taste.
• Freezable Delight: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for those busy days when you crave something warm and comforting.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Roasted Tomato Basil Soup successfully, gather your tools and prepare your space. Having everything on hand will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Baking sheet
• Immersion blender (or regular blender)
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for sautéing and simmering, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting the tomatoes evenly and efficiently.
• Immersion blender: Makes puréeing quick and easy while keeping mess to a minimum.

Ingredients

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup features fresh ingredients that combine to create an irresistible flavor.

For the Soup

• 9 Roma tomatoes (sliced lengthwise)
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (minced)
• 1 tsp Kosher salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 1 28 oz. can San Marzano tomatoes (crushed)
• 1 cup basil (fresh, roughly chopped)
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 2/3 cup heavy cream

How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. A hot oven is essential for roasting the tomatoes perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes

Spread the sliced tomato halves on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil. Then sprinkle with salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Roast the Tomatoes

Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for about 1 hour until they are caramelized. Remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.

Step 5: Add Seasonings

Stir in minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Add crushed San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and sugar into the pot. Lower heat to medium-low and let simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 7: Incorporate Broth and Tomatoes

Add both the chicken stock and roasted tomatoes into the pot. Allow everything to simmer together for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 8: Purée the Soup

Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, carefully transfer small batches of soup to blend before returning it to the pot.

Step 9: Add Cream

Stir in heavy cream until well combined. This will make your soup creamy and rich.

Step 10: Make Mini Croutons (Optional)

For added texture, cut bread into small cubes. Toss with oil, diced garlic, and basil before baking at 400°F for about 7 minutes until golden brown.

Step 11: Serve Your Soup

Ladle your delicious Roasted Tomato Basil Soup into bowls. Top with mini croutons if desired and serve immediately!

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is not only comforting on its own but also pairs wonderfully with various sides and toppings. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your soup experience.

With Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• A classic match! The gooey cheese and crispy bread complement the soup’s rich flavors perfectly.

Topped with Croutons

• Add mini croutons for a crunchy texture. They soak up the soup while adding a delightful bite.

Garnished with Fresh Basil

• Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor.

Served with a Side Salad

• A light salad can balance the meal. Consider a simple mixed greens salad drizzled with vinaigrette.

Accompanied by a Slice of Rustic Bread

• A hearty slice of rustic bread is perfect for dipping. Choose whole grain or sourdough for added flavor.

With a Drizzle of Balsamic Reduction

• Enhance the taste by drizzling balsamic reduction over the soup. It adds sweetness and acidity that complements the tomatoes beautifully.

How to Perfect Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Getting your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup just right is key to making it truly outstanding. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and basil make a significant difference in flavor, so opt for high-quality produce.

• Roast Longer for Depth: If you prefer a deeper flavor, consider roasting the tomatoes longer than an hour. Just watch them closely to prevent burning.

• Blend Until Smooth: For a velvety texture, ensure you blend the soup until completely smooth, allowing all ingredients to meld beautifully.

• Season Gradually: Taste as you go when adding salt and pepper. This ensures you achieve the perfect seasoning level without overpowering the natural flavors.

• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add spices like red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for an extra kick or depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
   A must-have pairing! The melty cheese creates a delicious contrast with the warm soup.

2. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil make this salad refreshing and complementary to the soup’s flavors.

3. Garlic Bread
   Crispy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, enhancing each bite.

4. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad adds protein and texture, making it a wholesome addition alongside your soup.

5. Stuffed Peppers
   Filled with rice and veggies, stuffed peppers provide a hearty side that pairs well with tomato-based soups.

6. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition while complementing the flavors of the soup nicely.

7. Cheesy Polenta
   Creamy polenta topped with cheese creates a rich side that balances out the acidity of the tomatoes in the soup.

8. Pesto Pasta Salad
   A cold pesto pasta salad brings freshness and herbal notes that work harmoniously with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Roasting Step – Roasting tomatoes enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for a rich soup.
• Overcooking the Garlic – Garlic can turn bitter if cooked too long. Sauté it just until fragrant, about one minute.
• Not Using Fresh Basil – Dried basil lacks the fresh flavor that makes this soup special. Always use fresh basil for the best taste.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments – Taste your soup before serving! You may need more salt or pepper to elevate the flavors.
• Blending Too Roughly – For a smooth consistency, blend the soup thoroughly. A few chunks can be nice, but aim for a velvety texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

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 as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot, about 4-6 minutes total.
• Stovetop – Pour into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Roasted Tomato Basil Soup:

What is the best type of tomato for this soup?

Fresh Roma tomatoes are ideal because they have fewer seeds and a thicker flesh, which gives your soup a richer texture.

Can I make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup vegan?

Yes! Substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

How do I enhance the flavor of my soup?

Add additional herbs like oregano or bay leaves during cooking. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also add depth.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Canned San Marzano tomatoes work wonderfully. Just skip the roasting step and add them directly to your pot.

How do I serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a cozy meal!

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect as a light lunch or paired with dinner. Feel free to customize it by adding different herbs or spices according to your taste preferences. Enjoy this delicious bowl of warmth!