Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Roasted tomato basil soup is a beloved classic that has stood the test of time. This comforting dish effortlessly captures the essence of summer’s bounty, with juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil melding together in a symphony of flavor. Whether you’re seeking a nourishing lunch, a soothing dinner, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
The secret to this soup’s exceptional taste lies in the roasting process, which caramelizes the tomatoes and amplifies their natural sweetness. Combined with the earthy depth of garlic and the bright, herbaceous notes of basil, the result is a soup that is both creamy and refreshing, perfect for savoring on a crisp autumn day or a chilly winter evening.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
This roasted tomato basil soup is a true delight for the senses. The vibrant color and inviting aroma draw you in, while the first spoonful delivers a burst of flavors that will leave you craving more. What sets this recipe apart is the perfect balance of acidity, sweetness, and creaminess, achieved through the careful roasting of the tomatoes and the judicious use of cream.
Beyond its exceptional taste, this soup is also incredibly versatile. It can be served as a comforting main course, accompanied by crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches, or as a starter for a more elaborate meal. Furthermore, the recipe lends itself to a variety of dietary modifications, making it accessible to a wide range of eaters. Whether you’re looking for a make-ahead option for busy weeknights or a dish to impress at your next gathering, this roasted tomato basil soup is sure to be a hit.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Roasted Tomato Basil Soup ❓
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and black pepper to taste
The beauty of this roasted tomato basil soup is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of juicy tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fragrant basil creates the Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile that has made tomato soup recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: Roast the tomatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re softened and starting to caramelize. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and set aside.
• Step 3: In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until translucent.
• Step 4: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until fragrant.
• Step 5: Add the roasted tomatoes, including any juices from the baking sheet, to the pot. Pour in the stock and stir to combine.
• Step 6: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Step 7: Remove the pot from the heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until desired consistency.
• Step 8: Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 75 minutes
• Total time: 90 minutes
Compared to traditional tomato soup which can take up to 90 minutes to prepare, this roasted tomato basil soup saves you 15% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fat: 19g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 654mg
These roasted tomato basil soup provide approximately 25% of your daily vitamin C requirements and 15% of your daily vitamin A needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Omit the bread or crackers and serve the soup in a mug or bowl for a carb-conscious meal.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Substitute the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream.
• Added protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken or crumbled tofu for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Add diced bell peppers or zucchini to the roasted tomatoes for additional nutrient-rich veggies.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the roasted tomato basil soup.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair the soup with a fresh green salad for a complete and balanced lunch or dinner.
• Complement the roasted tomato basil soup with a side of garlic-parmesan roasted potatoes or a quinoa and vegetable medley.
• For a casual gathering, serve the soup in mugs or small bowls alongside an assortment of toppings like croutons, shredded cheese, and fresh basil.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Not blending the soup enough: Failing to blend the soup thoroughly can result in a grainy texture, so be sure to use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a traditional blender until it’s velvety smooth.
• Skipping the cream: While the soup can be enjoyed without the added cream, the heavy cream provides a rich and creamy texture that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Make sure to spread the tomato halves in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting and caramelization.
• Not seasoning properly: Don’t be afraid to taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to your liking. The right balance of flavors is key.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These roasted tomato basil soup retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: To freeze the soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Freezing baked: You can also freeze the fully prepared soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Reheating: When reheating the soup, whether from the refrigerator or freezer, you may need to add a splash of stock or cream to restore the desired consistency. Heat gently, stirring frequently, until the soup is warmed through.
❓ FAQs
Can I make this roasted tomato basil soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup is an excellent make-ahead option. You can roast the tomatoes and prepare the soup base up to 3 days in advance, then reheat and stir in the cream and basil just before serving. The soup also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute 3 pounds of canned diced or crushed tomatoes for the fresh tomatoes. This will save you the step of roasting the tomatoes, but you may lose some of the caramelized flavor from the roasting process.
Is this soup suitable for a dairy-free diet?
To make this soup dairy-free, simply substitute the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream. You can also omit the cream altogether, though it may result in a slightly thinner consistency.
Why is my soup gritty or grainy?
If your soup has a grainy texture, it’s likely due to not blending it thoroughly enough. Make sure to use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a traditional blender and blend until the soup is completely smooth and creamy.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to roast additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant along with the tomatoes. You can also stir in sautéed onions, celery, or carrots for added depth of flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
These roasted tomato basil soup represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a comforting main course or a sophisticated starter, they’re sure to impress with their rich, velvety texture and vibrant flavor. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these roasted tomato basil soup demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the roasting and blending process. So, gather your loved ones, ladle up a steaming bowl, and savor the warmth and nourishment of this timeless recipe.
