There’s nothing quite like the aroma of roasted tomatoes wafting through the kitchen on a chilly autumn afternoon. It’s the kind of scent that instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s cozy farmhouse, where she’d spend hours tending to her bountiful garden and whipping up the most incredible homemade soups. Roasted Tomato Basil Soup was always one of my favorites – the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and herbaceous flavors that warmed the soul.
As I grew older and started experimenting in the kitchen myself, I never quite managed to capture the magic of my grandmother’s recipe. That is, until I discovered the secret to the perfect Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. Now, it’s a dish I turn to time and time again, not only for its unbeatable flavor but also for its simplicity and versatility. Whether I’m hosting a cozy dinner party or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is my go-to for a comforting, nourishing meal.
Why This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
The key to this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup’s exceptional flavor lies in the roasting process. By taking the time to slowly roast the tomatoes, onions, and garlic, you unlock a depth of sweetness and caramelized goodness that you simply can’t achieve with a quick stovetop method. The result is a soup that’s bursting with concentrated tomato flavor, with just the right amount of creaminess from the heavy cream or coconut milk.
But the real magic happens when you add the fresh basil at the end. The fragrant, herbaceous notes of the basil perfectly complement the roasted tomatoes, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that’ll have your taste buds singing. Trust me, once you try this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, you’ll never go back to the canned stuff again.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
At the heart of this recipe are 3 pounds of ripe, juicy tomatoes. When it comes to tomatoes, you really want to seek out the best quality you can find – whether that’s from your local farmer’s market or a reputable grocery store. The natural sweetness and acidity of the tomatoes are what give this soup its signature flavor.
Next up, we have the onion and garlic. These aromatics provide the foundation for the soup, adding depth and complexity to the overall taste. The olive oil helps to caramelize the onions and garlic during the roasting process, unlocking their full flavor potential.
To round out the savory notes, we’ve got dried oregano and a touch of red pepper flakes (optional, for those who like a little heat). These spices add an earthy, slightly peppery note that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
Finally, the creamy element – whether it’s heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk – adds a luxurious, velvety texture to the soup. And the fresh basil leaves provide a burst of bright, herbal flavor in every spoonful.
Step-by-Step Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 45 minutes, this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is the perfect weeknight meal. All you’ll need is a large baking sheet, a blender or immersion blender, and a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven.
1- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Arrange the halved tomatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with the dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the veggies are evenly coated.
2- Roast the tomato mixture in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, stirring halfway, until the tomatoes are softened and starting to caramelize.
3- Once the roasted veggies are ready, transfer them to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
4- In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a simmer over medium heat. Carefully pour in the pureed tomato mixture and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk until fully incorporated. Finally, fold in the fresh chopped basil.
6- Ladle the Roasted Tomato Basil Soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired. Enjoy this comforting, velvety soup with crusty bread, grilled cheese, or a crisp salad.
Pro Tips for Success
- Roast the tomatoes until they’re deeply caramelized for maximum flavor. The longer you roast them, the sweeter and more intense the tomato flavor will be.
- For an extra creamy texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. This helps to incorporate the roasted veggies more seamlessly.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired spice level. Start with a small amount and add more if you want a bit of a kick.
- Experiment with different types of tomatoes – cherry, heirloom, or a mix – to create unique flavor profiles.
- If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a bit more broth to the soup. For a heartier, more substantial texture, use less broth.
Serving and Storing Your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Perfect Pairings for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup serves 6 and makes for a wonderfully comforting and satisfying meal. For the ultimate comfort food experience, serve it alongside crusty bread for dipping, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh green salad.
The rich, velvety texture of the soup also pairs beautifully with a glass of dry white wine or a light, crisp beer. And for a heartier main course, consider adding some roasted chickpeas, grilled chicken, or sautéed shrimp to the soup.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is the perfect dish to make in advance or double-batch for easy meal prep. Once cooled, the soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer-term storage, the soup freezes exceptionally well. Simply let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Creative Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Variations
While the classic Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a year-round delight, you can easily adapt it to the seasons. In the summer, try roasting a mix of heirloom tomatoes for a beautiful, vibrant soup. For fall and winter, swap in roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a heartier, more autumnal twist.
You can also experiment with different herbs – try swapping the basil for fresh thyme, rosemary, or even a blend of herbs. And for a touch of richness, stir in a spoonful of pesto or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end.
Making Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Diet-Friendly
For those following a gluten-free diet, this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to use a gluten-free broth.
To make it vegan, simply swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk. You can also omit the cream entirely for a lighter, dairy-free version.
If you’re watching your carb intake, you can reduce the amount of broth used and serve the soup in smaller portions, perhaps over a bed of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
A: While fresh, ripe tomatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can certainly use high-quality canned diced or crushed tomatoes in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the soup may have a slightly different flavor profile.
Q: How long does it take to prepare and cook this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
A: The total time for this recipe is 60 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Roasted Tomato Basil Soup keeps very well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup recipe yields 6 servings.
Q: What if my soup comes out too thin or too thick?
A: If your soup is too thin, simply let it simmer a bit longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate and the flavors to concentrate. Conversely, if it’s too thick, you can thin it out by adding a bit more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
- Total Time: 60
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This easy, homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a cozy, comforting classic that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Featuring roasted tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, it’s a flavorful and satisfying soup perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
– 3 pounds ripe tomatoes, halved
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Arrange the tomato halves cut-side up on a large baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. Roast the tomatoes for 30-40 minutes, until they are softened and caramelized.
3. In a large pot, sauté the onion in 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Add the roasted tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
5. Using an immersion blender or regular blender, puree the soup until smooth.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and the chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the Roasted Tomato Basil Soup warm, garnished with additional basil leaves, if desired.
Notes
This soup can be made ahead and reheated. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. For a thicker consistency, you can simmer the soup for a few more minutes before blending. Adjust the amount of broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 45
- Category: Soups, Stews & Chili
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a true comfort food classic that deserves a spot in every home cook’s repertoire. With its deep, concentrated tomato flavor, velvety texture, and fragrant basil notes, this soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s equally satisfying on a chilly autumn day as it is on a balmy summer evening.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility – it can be dressed up or down, adapted to suit various dietary needs, and easily scaled to feed a crowd. So whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a cozy dinner party, I encourage you to give this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup a try. I promise it’ll become your new go-to recipe for satisfying, nourishing meals. Let me know in the comments how you enjoyed it!
