This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is rich, velvety, and bursting with fresh tomato flavor. Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, while garlic and basil add incredible depth. It’s an easy, comforting soup that’s perfect with grilled cheese, crusty bread, or a simple salad.
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Arrange the tomatoes, onion, and garlic on a large baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Roast for 35 to 40 minutes until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
- Transfer the roasted vegetables to a large pot.
- Add the vegetable broth.
- Bring to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the basil leaves.
- Blend until completely smooth using an immersion blender or countertop blender.
- Stir in the heavy cream if using.
- Taste and add sugar if needed to balance acidity.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Roma tomatoes work especially well.
- Roasting enhances sweetness and depth.
- Blend carefully when the soup is hot.
- Add cream for a richer texture.
- Fresh basil provides the best flavor.
Variations
- Add roasted red peppers.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese.
- Use coconut milk instead of cream.
- Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Roast a carrot with the tomatoes for extra sweetness.
- Top with homemade croutons.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with grilled cheese sandwiches.
- Pair with garlic bread.
- Enjoy with a Caesar salad.
- Top with Parmesan cheese.
- Serve with crusty artisan bread.
- Add a swirl of cream before serving.
Tips
- Roast vegetables until lightly browned.
- Blend in batches if using a standard blender.
- Freeze leftovers for easy meals.
- Fresh basil should be added after roasting.
- Taste before adding extra salt.
- Reheat gently to preserve flavor.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings
Serves: 6
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 520mg
FAQs
Why roast the tomatoes before making soup?
Roasting concentrates the tomato flavor and caramelizes the natural sugars, creating a richer and more complex soup than using raw tomatoes.
Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes. Whole canned tomatoes can be roasted and used when fresh tomatoes are out of season. Drain excess liquid before roasting.
Can I freeze roasted tomato basil soup?
Absolutely. Let the soup cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
What type of basil should I use?
Fresh sweet basil is the traditional choice and provides the best flavor. Dried basil can be used in a pinch, but the taste won’t be as vibrant.
How can I make the soup creamier?
Blend thoroughly and add heavy cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk for a richer texture.
What goes best with tomato basil soup?
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic pairing, but crusty bread, garlic toast, salads, and paninis are also excellent choices.
Conclusion
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting classic that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Roasted tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil combine to create a rich, silky soup that’s perfect for cozy lunches, light dinners, and meal prep throughout the week.
