Roasted Tomato Basil Soup – Easy & Delicious Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, rich, and flavorful bowl of soup, this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup will quickly become your new go-to recipe. With its silky texture, deep flavors, and perfect balance of fresh and roasted ingredients, this soup is a true delight for both the senses and the soul. Easy to make, and bursting with depth, this roasted tomato soup is an ideal meal for chilly evenings or a cozy lunch with friends and family. In under an hour, you can prepare a dish that is both indulgent and satisfying.

Why This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a Must-Try

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup recipe is not only incredibly flavorful but also simple to prepare. The unique twist of roasting the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness and provides a deeper, smokier flavor. Paired with fresh basil, a hint of garlic, and the richness of heavy cream, this soup is the epitome of comfort food. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted for dietary needs—making it suitable for everyone. If you’ve never tried roasted tomato soup before, you’re in for a treat!

Ingredients for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

• Roma Tomatoes: Roasting these tomatoes deepens their flavor, creating a smoky sweetness that elevates the entire soup.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps the tomatoes roast to perfection.
• Unsalted Butter: Used for sautéing the onions, this adds a velvety texture to the soup base.
• Yellow Onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
• Garlic: Essential for enhancing the savory aroma and taste of the soup.
• Fresh Thyme: A fragrant herb that pairs perfectly with the basil and tomatoes.
• Kosher Salt: Brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Ground Black Pepper: Adds a mild heat and complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
• Crushed Tomatoes: These canned tomatoes form the foundation of the soup, providing body and extra flavor.
• Fresh Basil: The star herb in this dish, fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic taste.
• Sugar: Balances out any acidity from the tomatoes, resulting in a smoother taste.
• Chicken Stock: Offers a savory base, enhancing the soup’s richness.
• Heavy Cream: Adds a luxurious silkiness to the soup, creating a creamy texture and deep flavor.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Vegetable Stock: If you prefer a vegetarian version of the soup, vegetable stock is a perfect substitute for chicken stock.
• Half-and-Half or Whole Milk: For a lighter soup, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
• Dried Basil: If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil can be used, although the flavor won’t be as vibrant.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Slice the Roma tomatoes in half and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Roast for about 1 hour or until tender.
2. While the tomatoes are roasting, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté for another minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.
4. Add the canned crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, and sugar to the pot. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Once the roasted tomatoes are done, transfer them carefully from the baking sheet to the pot. Add the chicken stock and let the mixture simmer for an additional 20-30 minutes.
6. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup to your desired texture. For a smoother consistency, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender or food processor.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for a few more minutes until the soup is velvety smooth and warm. Serve immediately.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

• Roast the Tomatoes Ahead: Roasting the tomatoes ahead of time makes the process quicker when you’re ready to make the soup. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before using them.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: The freshness of the basil and thyme will make a significant difference in the flavor of the soup. If you must use dried herbs, adjust the quantities accordingly.
• Blending Options: An immersion blender allows you to control the texture of the soup, giving you the option for a chunky or smooth consistency. Be cautious when blending hot soup to avoid burns.
• Cream Substitutes: If you’re looking to make the soup lighter, substitute the heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half. For a dairy-free version, omit the cream and milk completely.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup pairs perfectly with grilled cheese sandwiches, creating a classic comfort meal. For a twist, serve it with homemade croutons made by toasting cubes of bread with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt.

You can also try serving this soup with a side salad for a lighter meal or add a dollop of sour cream or pesto on top for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while simmering the soup.

The soup stores beautifully in an airtight container for up to a week and freezes well for up to two months, making it a great make-ahead option.

Seasonal Variations and Health Benefits of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

This roasted tomato basil soup is ideal for any season, but it truly shines in the fall and winter when tomatoes are at their peak and when you’re craving a comforting meal. Not only is this soup delicious, but it also offers several health benefits, including vitamins A and C from the tomatoes and antioxidants from the fresh herbs.

Conclusion

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is the ultimate comfort food—perfect for any occasion. Its deep, rich flavors, enhanced by the roasting process, make it a standout dish that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or making it for a family gathering, this soup offers a satisfying blend of sweetness from the tomatoes, the fresh aroma of basil, and the luxurious creaminess that makes each spoonful irresistible. With a quick prep time and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and again. Serve it alongside your favorite bread or grilled cheese for the perfect meal to enjoy with loved ones.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

More Relevant Recipes

• Roasted Tomato Basil Ricotta Toast: This recipe pairs roasted tomatoes with fresh basil and creamy ricotta on toast, making it a perfect appetizer or a light meal that mirrors the delicious flavors of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup.
• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup: This creamy soup features savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and Parmesan, offering a rich, comforting dish with a hearty texture, much like the Roasted Tomato Basil Soup.
• Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken: A creamy chicken dish with sun-dried tomatoes, offering a tangy and rich flavor profile that pairs well with the roasted tomatoes and basil in the original soup recipe.

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