Roasted Tomato Soup Basil: A Flavorful & Easy Recipe

Roasted Tomato Soup Basil: Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of tomato soup on a chilly evening? I think not! But this isn’t just any tomato soup; it’s a deeply flavorful, intensely satisfying Roasted Tomato Soup Basil that will redefine your definition of comfort food. Imagine the sweet, concentrated taste of roasted tomatoes mingling with the fragrant aroma of fresh basil – it’s a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate.

Tomato soup, in its various forms, has been a culinary staple for centuries, with roots tracing back to ancient civilizations. While the exact origins are debated, its popularity soared in the 19th and 20th centuries, becoming a beloved dish in households worldwide. This particular version elevates the classic by roasting the tomatoes, a technique that unlocks their natural sugars and creates a richer, more complex flavor profile. The addition of basil adds a bright, herbaceous note that perfectly complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.

People adore this dish for several reasons. First, the taste is simply irresistible – the roasted tomatoes provide a depth of flavor that canned or fresh tomatoes alone can’t achieve. Second, the creamy texture is incredibly comforting and satisfying. Finally, it’s surprisingly easy to make! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a restaurant-quality soup that will impress your family and friends. So, grab your roasting pan and let’s get started on this culinary adventure!

Ingredients:

• 2.5 lbs ripe tomatoes (about 6-8 medium), any variety, cored and halved
• 1 large yellow onion, peeled and quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus extra for garnish
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: croutons, grated Parmesan cheese, a swirl of pesto

Roasting the Vegetables:

Okay, let’s get started! The key to a truly amazing roasted tomato soup is, well, roasting the tomatoes (and other veggies!). This brings out their natural sweetness and creates a depth of flavor you just can’t get any other way. Trust me, it’s worth the extra time.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you put anything in. This ensures even cooking and proper caramelization.
2. Prepare the vegetables. Core and halve your tomatoes. Quarter the onion. Peel the garlic cloves. No need to get too fancy with the chopping – they’re all going to be blended later.
3. Toss with olive oil and seasonings. In a large bowl, toss the tomatoes, onion, and garlic with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, the dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy with the salt – it really helps to bring out the flavors.
4. Arrange on a baking sheet. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded, or they’ll steam instead of roast. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
5. Roast in the oven. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized. The edges should be a little browned and the vegetables should be fragrant. Keep an eye on them – every oven is different!

Blending and Simmering:

Now that our veggies are beautifully roasted, it’s time to transform them into a creamy, dreamy soup. This part is super easy!

1. Transfer to a blender. Carefully transfer the roasted vegetables to a blender. Be careful – they’re hot! You might need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your blender.
2. Add broth. Add about 2 cups of the vegetable broth to the blender. Start with less and add more as needed to achieve a smooth consistency.
3. Blend until smooth. Blend on high speed until the soup is completely smooth and creamy. Be careful when blending hot liquids – start on a low speed and gradually increase to prevent splattering. If your blender doesn’t have a vent, crack the lid slightly to allow steam to escape.
4. Pour into a pot. Pour the blended soup into a large pot or Dutch oven.
5. Add remaining broth and simmer. Add the remaining 2 cups of vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Simmer for 15-20 minutes. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and deepen.

Finishing Touches:

Almost there! Just a few more steps to make this soup absolutely perfect.

1. Stir in the cream. Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This adds richness and creaminess to the soup.
2. Add basil. Stir in the chopped fresh basil. The basil adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the roasted tomatoes perfectly.
3. Season to taste. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or even a touch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
4. Serve and enjoy! Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra basil leaves, croutons, grated Parmesan cheese, or a swirl of pesto, if desired.

Tips for the Best Roasted Tomato Soup:

• Use ripe tomatoes. The riper the tomatoes, the sweeter and more flavorful the soup will be. Look for tomatoes that are slightly soft to the touch and have a deep red color.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Overcrowding the baking sheet will cause the vegetables to steam instead of roast, which will result in a less flavorful soup. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
• Roast until caramelized. The key to a truly amazing roasted tomato soup is to roast the vegetables until they are slightly caramelized. This brings out their natural sweetness and creates a depth of flavor you just can’t get any other way.
• Use high-quality broth. The quality of the broth will affect the flavor of the soup. Use a good-quality vegetable broth or chicken broth.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or even a touch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Make it your own! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique version of roasted tomato soup.

Variations:

• Spicy Roasted Tomato Soup: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup for a spicy kick.
• Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons: Top the soup with grilled cheese croutons for a fun and delicious twist. Cut grilled cheese sandwiches into small squares and use them as croutons.
• Vegan Roasted Tomato Soup: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this soup vegan.
• Roasted Tomato Soup with Pesto: Swirl a spoonful of pesto into each bowl of soup before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Roasted Tomato Soup with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the soup before serving for a touch of sweetness and acidity.

Storage:

Leftover roasted tomato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply warm the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave until heated through.

Serving Suggestions:

Roasted tomato soup is delicious on its own, but it’s also great served with a variety of accompaniments. Here are a few ideas:

• Grilled cheese sandwich: A classic pairing!
• Crusty bread: Perfect for dipping.
• Salad: A light and refreshing side dish.
• Croutons: Adds a nice crunch.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, savory flavor.
• Pesto: Adds a burst of fresh flavor.
• Balsamic glaze: Adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.

Conclusion:

This Roasted Tomato Soup with Basil is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. The deep, concentrated flavors of the roasted tomatoes, perfectly balanced with the fresh, herbaceous basil, create a symphony of taste that will leave you craving more. It’s a comforting, soul-warming dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, making it a weeknight winner and a sophisticated choice for a weekend gathering. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never go back to canned soup again! Why is this a must-try? Because it’s simple, healthy, and incredibly delicious. Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and intensifies their flavor, creating a depth that you just can’t achieve with other methods. The basil adds a bright, fresh note that perfectly complements the richness of the tomatoes. It’s a flavor combination that’s both classic and timeless, and this recipe showcases it in the best possible way. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a guilt-free indulgence. But the best part? This soup is incredibly versatile. Looking for serving suggestions? A grilled cheese sandwich is the quintessential pairing, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. For a more elegant presentation, swirl in a dollop of crème fraîche or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. You could also top it with homemade croutons for added crunch or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a salty, savory kick. And don’t be afraid to experiment with variations! If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Or, for a creamier soup, blend in a can of coconut milk or a splash of heavy cream. You could also add other vegetables to the roasting pan, such as onions, garlic, or bell peppers, to create a more complex flavor profile. I personally love adding a roasted red pepper for an extra layer of sweetness. Another great addition is a swirl of pesto on top just before serving. The possibilities are endless! I’m so confident that you’ll love this Roasted Tomato Soup with Basil that I urge you to try it as soon as possible. It’s the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening, impress your friends and family, or simply treat yourself to a delicious and healthy meal. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments in the comments section below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to create even better recipes in the future. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and let me know what you think. I can’t wait to hear from you! Happy cooking!

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