The aroma of roasted tomatoes filling the kitchen is truly something special. It instantly transports me to cozy evenings spent wrapped in a blanket with a bowl of steaming hot soup. Today, I’m excited to share my Comforting Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Basil, an easy soup recipe that highlights the natural sweetness and depth of roasted Campari tomatoes, garlic, and onions. With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for those crisp, chilly days when you crave a warm hug in a bowl. Not only is it a nourishing and healthy option that fits into your vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, but it also proves to be a budget-friendly meal that even your pickiest eaters will love. What’s your favorite way to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup?
Why Is This Soup So Special?
Comforting flavors come together in this delightful soup, making it a perfect meal for any day. Minimal prep time means you can whip it up quickly, saving you time in the kitchen. Healthy and hearty, this roasted tomato soup is packed with nutrients, perfect for those who prioritize wellness. Versatile enough to suit various dietary needs, it can easily be made vegan by swapping in coconut cream. Plus, whether paired with grilled cheese or enjoyed solo, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Embrace the warmth of this easy soup recipe!
Roasted Tomato Soup Ingredients
• Discover the essential ingredients for a delicious roasted tomato soup!
For the Soup
- Campari Tomatoes – Offers a natural sweetness that is enhanced by roasting; canned tomatoes can be used for convenience.
- Olive Oil – Adds a rich flavor and helps with roasting; any neutral oil can act as a substitute.
- Onion – Brings sweetness and depth to the soup; shallots or leeks work well as alternatives.
- Garlic – Provides a savory aroma that elevates the dish; garlic powder can be used in smaller amounts if fresh is unavailable.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for balancing flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.
- Oregano – Imparts earthy herbal notes; if using dried, reduce the quantity (1 tsp dried for every tbsp fresh).
- Smoked Paprika – Adds depth with a subtle smokiness; feel free to substitute regular paprika.
- Vegetable Broth – Serves as the soup’s flavorful base; chicken stock is a viable alternative.
- Heavy Cream – Incorporates richness and creaminess; swap with coconut cream for a vegan option.
- Fresh Basil – Complements the flavors with bright herbal notes; dried basil can be used if fresh isn’t available, but use sparingly.
Feel free to gather all these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to creating a delightful, healthy roasted tomato soup that your family will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Comforting Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Basil
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature is essential for roasting your Campari tomatoes, garlic, and onions to perfection, allowing them to caramelize beautifully. While the oven warms up, gather your baking dish and ingredients, ensuring everything is ready to go.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetable Mixture
Halve the Campari tomatoes and place them in a spacious baking dish along with quartered onion and halved garlic. Drizzle generously with olive oil and season the mixture with kosher salt, oregano, and smoky paprika. Toss everything to ensure even coverage of the seasonings, allowing the natural flavors to meld.
Step 3: Roast the Ingredients
Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and roast for 30-40 minutes. Halfway through roasting, give the mixture a gentle toss to promote even caramelization. You’ll know it’s ready when the tomatoes burst and turn golden brown, and your kitchen fills with a delightful aroma that promises a comforting roasted tomato soup.
Step 4: Combine into a Pot
Once the vegetables are beautifully roasted, carefully transfer them along with all their juices into a large pot. Add a handful of fresh basil to the pot, allowing it to infuse its aromatic flavor into the base of your roasted tomato soup.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the roasted vegetable mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the mixture into a blender. Blend in batches if needed, ensuring you capture the velvety texture that makes this roasted tomato soup so inviting.
Step 6: Stir in Broth and Cream
After blending, return the smooth soup to low heat and stir in the vegetable broth, adjusting the texture to your preference. Next, incorporate heavy cream for a rich finish—this step can be skipped or substituted with coconut cream for a vegan version. Allow it to heat through, but avoid boiling.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the creamy roasted tomato soup into bowls, garnishing with additional fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. This warming dish pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches or a crisp side salad, making it a fabulous, cozy meal for any occasion.
What to Serve with Comforting Roasted Tomato Soup
Warm up your dinner table with delightful pairings that elevate this cozy classic to a complete meal.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooey, melted cheese perfectly complements the rich, velvety soup, creating a classic comfort food duo. There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of toasted bread contrasting with the smoothness of your soup.
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Garlic Bread: This crispy, buttery treat is perfect for dipping into your roasted tomato goodness, delivering an additional layer of flavor with each bite. The garlicky aroma fills the room and beckons everyone to the table.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the soup. Combine seasonal greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a vibrant contrast.
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Pesto Pasta: Tossed with a bit of olive oil and fresh basil, pesto pasta offers an aromatic and herby richness that harmonizes beautifully with the tomato soup. It’s a comforting dish that feels homey and indulgent.
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Roasted Veggies: Caramelized, seasoned vegetables provide a wholesome side that enhances the meal with their natural sweetness and roasted flavor. Choose an assortment like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini for variety.
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Cheesy Quesadillas: A crispy, cheesy quesadilla brings a delightful texture and savory flavor to the table, making it an alluring snack to enjoy with each spoonful of soup. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite fillings.
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Wine Pairing: A glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the acidity of the tomatoes, bringing out the fresh, vibrant flavors in the soup. A light red can also add a nice touch, enhancing the soup’s depth.
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Chocolate Soufflé: End with something sweet; a light and airy chocolate soufflé offers a rich contrast that leaves you satisfied. The bitterness of dark chocolate pairs surprisingly well with the soup’s sweet undertones.
Each of these choices provides a delightful contrast to your comforting roasted tomato soup, ensuring every bite is both satisfying and memorable!
Make Ahead Options
These comforting Roasted Tomato Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can roast the Campari tomatoes, garlic, and onions up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial roasting steps, then refrigerate the roasted vegetables in an airtight container. When you’re ready to finish your soup, blend the mixture, stir in the vegetable broth, and add the heavy cream—just reheat it gently on the stovetop without boiling. The flavors will be just as vibrant and delicious! If you prefer, the soup can also be fully prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts.
Expert Tips for Roasted Tomato Soup
Creaminess Boost: Blend in a boiled potato or soaked cashews for a creamier texture without the added heaviness of cream.
Adjusting Acidity: If your soup tastes too acidic, a spoonful of sugar can balance it out beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor of the roasted tomato soup.
Watch the Roasting: Ensure your garlic and onion are roasted until soft. This maximizes flavor and prevents any harshness in your final dish.
Easy Blending: Use an immersion blender for quick blending directly in the pot, minimizing cleanup time while keeping your roasted tomato soup smooth.
Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or different oils; they can completely transform your soup experience!
Storage Tips for Roasted Tomato Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing to preserve its freshness.
Freezer: Freeze the roasted tomato soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. This makes for easy meal prep and allows you to enjoy a warm bowl whenever the craving strikes!
Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up on the stove over low heat. For an extra touch, stir in a splash of vegetable broth or a dollop of cream to revive creaminess.
Room Temperature: If you’re serving the soup right away, keep it at room temperature for no longer than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Enjoy your delicious roasted tomato soup!
Variations & Substitutions for Roasted Tomato Soup
Feel free to explore these delightful variations and substitutions to make this roasted tomato soup truly your own!
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Creamy Twist: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich, dairy-free option that adds a hint of tropical flavor.
Embrace the creamy texture while keeping it vegan. The sweetness of the coconut can beautifully complement the roasted tomatoes! -
Herb-Infused: Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary along with basil for an aromatic twist; these herbs provide a different flavor profile to the soup.
A sprinkle of these fragrant herbs can elevate the entire dish, making each spoonful a new experience. -
Sweet and Spicy: Throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a splash of hot sauce for a delightful kick.
This adds an exciting layer of flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness of the roasted tomatoes! -
Nutty Flavor: For a deeper flavor, mix in a couple of tablespoons of almond butter or tahini after blending; it will give it a unique nutty richness.
This surprising addition can turn your soup into a gourmet experience, while also enriching the texture. -
Vegetable Boost: Incorporate other roasted vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added sweetness and nutrients; simply chop and throw into the roasting pan.
These vibrant veggies not only enhance your soup’s flavor but also increase its health benefits, making it heartier. -
Magic of Mashed Potatoes: Blend in a boiled potato for extra coziness and creaminess; it serves as a fantastic thickener, ensuring a lush texture.
The addition of potato creates a silky finish that warms the soul and makes the soup irresistibly filling. -
Lentil Power: For added protein and heartiness, stir in cooked lentils to your soup before serving; they’ll soak up the flavors beautifully.
This makes the soup more of a meal, perfect for a fulfilling lunch or dinner that will keep you satisfied longer. -
Canned vs. Fresh: If you’re in a hurry, feel free to use high-quality canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones; just adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Canned tomatoes can bring convenience without compromising on taste, especially if you’re short on time!
Dive into these variations and substitutions, and enjoy crafting a roasted tomato soup that reflects your tastes! Whether it’s paired with a classic grilled cheese or enjoyed alone, there’s endless fun to be had in the kitchen.
Roasted Tomato Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of tomatoes should I use for this soup?
Absolutely! I recommend using Campari tomatoes for their natural sweetness and acidity. However, if fresh tomatoes aren’t available, you can easily substitute them with whole peeled canned tomatoes. This option not only saves time but also yields a deliciously smooth soup!
How long can I store roasted tomato soup in the fridge?
You can store your roasted tomato soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing the container to maintain its delightful flavors and freshness. Each time you enjoy a bowl, it will still taste like a warm hug!
Can I freeze roasted tomato soup, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your roasted tomato soup! Simply portion it into airtight freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, ensuring there’s some room for expansion. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it gently on the stove over low heat for the best texture.
What if my soup turns out too acidic?
No worries! If your roasted tomato soup tastes too acidic, you can easily balance that flavor by adding a spoonful of sugar. Start with a small amount and adjust gradually, as tomatoes can vary in acidity. This little trick will enhance the overall flavor, making it even more comforting!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! This roasted tomato soup is vegetarian and can be made vegan by substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream or leaving it out altogether. If you have allergies, be cautious with the broth. Use vegetable broth for a vegan version or opt for low-sodium options if salt intake is a concern.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh basil?
Indeed! If fresh basil isn’t on hand, you can use dried basil as a substitute. However, dried herbs are more potent, so use only about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh, to avoid overpowering the soup. Enjoy exploring these wonderful flavors in your chunky, warming bowl of roasted tomato soup!
Velvety Roasted Tomato Soup: Easy, Healthy Comfort in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Gather your baking dish and ingredients.
- Halve the Campari tomatoes, quarter the onion, and halve the garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, oregano, and paprika. Toss to coat.
- Roast the mixture in the oven for 30-40 minutes, tossing halfway, until tomatoes burst and turn golden.
- Transfer the roasted vegetables and juices into a large pot. Add fresh basil.
- Blend the mixture until smooth with an immersion blender.
- Return to low heat, stir in vegetable broth and heavy cream, heat through without boiling.
- Serve in bowls, garnished with fresh basil. Pairs well with grilled cheese sandwiches.