Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a warm and comforting dish that brings together the classic flavors of tomatoes and basil. This recipe starts with roasting fresh Roma tomatoes to enhance their natural sweetness, creating a rich, flavorful base for the soup. Along with sautéed onions and garlic, it incorporates crushed San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil, creating a delicious harmony in every bowl. The addition of cream gives the soup its creamy texture that makes it so satisfying. Enjoy this dish with crusty bread or mini croutons for a lovely meal any time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is not only easy to make, but it is also full of flavor. The combination of roasted tomatoes, fresh basil, and cream makes every sip delightful. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch. Plus, it uses simple, fresh ingredients that you can find at any grocery store. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, you’ll appreciate how quickly this recipe comes together. It’s a great way to use ripe tomatoes and enjoy the taste of homemade goodness.

How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Ingredients You’ll Need

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 can (28 oz) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
1 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped
1 tbsp sugar
2 cups chicken stock
2/3 cup heavy cream

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread tomato halves on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and black pepper, and roast for 1 hour.
2. In a large pot over medium-high heat, heat 2 tbsp of oil or butter. Add diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, then stir in minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté for another minute.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, basil, and sugar to the pot. Lower the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in chicken stock and the roasted tomatoes, simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup or carefully transfer to a blender. Return puréed soup to the pot and stir in heavy cream.
6. For mini croutons, preheat oven to 400°F, cut bread into cubes, drizzle with oil, and bake for about 7 minutes.
7. Serve soup hot, topped with croutons and optionally a drizzle of olive oil or sprinkle of fresh basil.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Serve your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup hot, ideally in a deep bowl. You can add a sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil on top for extra flavor. Pair it with crusty bread or a salad for a complete meal. Enjoy this comforting soup on a chilly evening or as a light lunch.

How to Store Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

To store leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. The soup should last up to 4 days in the fridge. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips for the Best Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe tomatoes. Roasting them enhances their sweetness and adds depth to the soup. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and don’t skip the fresh basil, as it gives the soup a bright, fresh flavor. If you want a thicker soup, use less chicken stock or add more roasted tomatoes.

Recipe Variations

You can add other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, during the sautéing step for added flavor and nutrition. For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes. If you’d like a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes for a quicker option. Just skip the roasting step and add the canned tomatoes directly to the pot.

How can I make this soup vegan?
Simply replace the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.

Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, Roasted Tomato Basil Soup freezes well. Just make sure it cools completely before storing in airtight containers. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

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