Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy bowl of warmth that feels like a hug on a chilly day, then this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is just what you need. There’s something magical about the way roasting tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. This soup has become a cherished favorite in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to bring everyone together around the table.

Imagine a big pot simmering gently on the stove, filling your kitchen with the delightful aroma of fresh basil and roasted tomatoes. It pairs beautifully with grilled cheese sandwiches, making it an ultimate comfort food combination that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This soup comes together quickly, making it ideal for those busy weeknights.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike love the rich flavors, making it a hit for the entire family.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this soup in advance and warm it up when you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously comforting: The combination of roasted tomatoes and fresh basil creates an unforgettable flavor that comforts the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this heartwarming dish:

• 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

Variations

One of the best things about this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is its flexibility! You can easily make adjustments based on what you have on hand or your personal tastes. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add some heat: If you like a kick, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions.
• Go vegan: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option without sacrificing richness.
• Boost the greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the simmering stage for added nutrition and color.
• Cheesy twist: Stir in shredded vegan cheese right before serving to give your soup an extra layer of creaminess.

How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spread the sliced Roma tomatoes on a baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Roasting them for about an hour enhances their sweetness and adds depth to your soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until they’re soft and translucent. This step is crucial because it builds a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Herbs

Stir in minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté for another minute until fragrant—this is where your kitchen will start smelling heavenly! The garlic adds zest while the thyme brings an earthy note.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Next, add crushed tomatoes from the can along with fresh basil and sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes; this allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Incorporate Roasted Tomatoes

Now it’s time to add your roasted tomatoes into the pot along with chicken stock. Simmer everything together for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally—this helps keep everything mixed well as it cooks down into a luscious soup.

Step 6: Blend It Up

Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth right in your pot. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer batches into a blender but be cautious as it’s hot! Blending makes your soup creamy without adding too many extra calories.

Step 7: Finish with Cream

Stir in heavy cream to give your soup a rich finish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—you might want more salt or pepper depending on personal preference!

Step 8: Prepare Mini Croutons (Optional)

For some crunchy texture, cut small pieces of bread into cubes, toss them with olive oil, diced garlic, and chopped basil, then bake at 400°F for about 7 minutes until golden brown!

Step 9: Serve!

Ladle your delicious Roasted Tomato Basil Soup into bowls and top with mini croutons if using. Serve immediately while it’s warm—enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Making this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful experience, and a few helpful tips can elevate your dish even more!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh tomatoes, herbs, and spices enhance the flavor of your soup, bringing out that vibrant, garden-fresh taste that canned or dried alternatives simply can’t match.

• Don’t rush the roasting – Allowing the tomatoes to roast for a full hour caramelizes their natural sugars, resulting in a deeper, richer flavor that makes the soup unforgettable.

• Adjust seasoning to taste – As you simmer and blend the soup, give it a taste test! You might find it needs a pinch more salt or some additional herbs to reach your desired flavor profile.

• Try different creams – For a lighter version of this soup, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. This keeps the dish creamy without using dairy while adding a unique twist.

• Make ahead and store – This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to let the flavors develop overnight.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Serving your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is just as important as making it! With a few simple touches, you can create a beautiful presentation that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves – A few whole leaves not only add color but also enhance the basil aroma.
• A drizzle of olive oil – Just before serving, drizzling some high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and visual appeal.
• Parmesan cheese shavings (optional) – If you’re looking for an extra layer of flavor without going against dietary restrictions, consider using plant-based cheese shavings for that cheesy touch.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – The classic pairing! Use your favorite bread and cheese for a crunchy, gooey delight that complements the soup perfectly.

• Garlic Bread – Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread adds another layer of flavor and texture that pairs beautifully with the tomato-based soup.

• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette dressing refreshes the palate between sips of rich soup. Toss together seasonal greens with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for added color.

• Roasted Vegetables – Simple roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots provide a healthy side option. Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the acidity of the tomato soup.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re ready to enjoy a bowl (or two!) of comforting Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and store it for quick, delicious meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the soup completely before freezing.
• Pour into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label your containers with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 1-minute increments until hot.

FAQs

Got questions about this delightful Roasted Tomato Basil Soup? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can be a great alternative. Just make sure to roast them like in the recipe to enhance their flavor.

How long does Roasted Tomato Basil Soup last in the fridge?

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container.

What can I serve with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread, making it a comforting meal any day!

Can I make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the butter with vegan butter or olive oil and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a delicious vegan version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this cozy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled cheese or enjoying it on its own, this soup is sure to bring comfort and joy to your table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!