Looking for a warm, tasty treat that’s easy to make? My Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is just what you need. With fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil, each spoonful bursts with flavor. Whether you want a comforting meal on a chilly day or a dish to impress guests, this soup is perfect. Let me walk you through this simple, yet delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients Required
To make this roasted tomato basil soup, you will need some fresh and simple ingredients. Here’s what you need:
– 4 cups ripe tomatoes, halved (preferably Roma or vine-ripened)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, unpeeled
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
– 1 cup vegetable broth (low sodium)
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, tightly packed
– ½ cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a vegan option)
– Additional fresh basil for garnish
These ingredients come together to create a rich and comforting soup. The ripe tomatoes bring sweetness, while the onion and garlic add depth. Olive oil enhances the flavors, and fresh basil gives it a bright finish.
If you want a creamier soup, feel free to add the heavy cream or use coconut cream for a vegan twist. The sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes, making the soup taste even better.
This soup is not just tasty; it is also a great way to enjoy fresh ingredients.Enjoy making this simple and flavorful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat helps the tomatoes roast well.
2. Prepare the baking sheet: Grab a large baking sheet. Place the halved tomatoes, chopped onion, and unpeeled garlic cloves on it. Make sure they are in a single layer.
3. Season the vegetables: Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes, onion, and garlic. Add salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. You might want to sprinkle a teaspoon of sugar on top. This helps balance the tomato’s acidity.
4. Roast in the oven: Slide the baking sheet into the oven. Roast for about 30-35 minutes. Look for the tomatoes to be tender and slightly charred. This gives the soup a deeper flavor.
Blending and Simmering
1. Cool down: After roasting, take the baking sheet out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes. Carefully peel the roasted garlic cloves. They will taste sweet and mellow.
2. Blend the mixture: In a blender, mix the roasted tomatoes, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, and fresh basil leaves. Blend until smooth. This is where the magic happens!
3. Simmer the soup: Pour the blended mixture into a pot. Heat it gently over medium heat. Stir now and then to keep it warm.
4. Finish with cream: Add the heavy cream or coconut cream into the pot. Stir it in well. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Prepare for serving: Once the flavors blend nicely, take the pot off the heat. Let the soup rest for a few minutes. This wait enhances the flavors before you serve it.
– Presentation Tips: Serve the soup in warm bowls. Drizzle a swirl of cream on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves to make it look fancy and colorful.
Now you have a delicious Roasted Tomato Basil Soup ready to enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
Seasoning is key to a great soup. Start with salt and pepper. Taste as you go. If the soup tastes too sharp, add a little sugar. This helps balance the acidity from the tomatoes. Fresh herbs like basil can really boost the flavor. Add them at the end of cooking for a fresh taste. Use a handful of basil leaves. Tear them gently to release their oils.
For serving, consider a drizzle of cream on top. This adds richness and a lovely look. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also add a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.
Equipment Suggestions
For making this soup, you need a good blender. A high-speed blender works best for smooth soup. If you don’t have one, a regular blender will do just fine. Just blend in small batches to avoid spills.
You also need a heavy pot for simmering. A Dutch oven is perfect for this. It heats evenly and holds the heat well. A wooden spoon is great for stirring, too. These tools will help you make the best roasted tomato basil soup.
Variations
Different Ingredient Options
For a creamy soup, I often use heavy cream. But if you want a vegan option, coconut cream works well. It gives the soup a rich taste without dairy. You can also try nut-based creams for different flavors.
Adding spices can elevate your soup. Consider red pepper flakes for heat or smoked paprika for a depth of flavor. You can also mix in some fresh herbs like thyme or oregano. These will give your soup a new twist.
If you want to boost protein, add some cooked lentils or chickpeas. They blend nicely and add a nice texture. Grilled chicken or shrimp can also make it heartier.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your roasted tomato basil soup with crusty bread. A slice of sourdough or a baguette complements the soup perfectly. A fresh salad on the side adds a nice crunch. Try a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
For gatherings, presentation matters. Serve the soup in warm bowls. Add a swirl of cream on top for a fancy touch. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for color. You can even use a drizzle of olive oil for an extra layer of flavor.It gives you all the steps to create this comforting dish.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your roasted tomato basil soup fresh, store it in the fridge. Use a glass or plastic container with a tight lid. This helps prevent spills and keeps out air. Your soup will last for about three to five days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. Pour the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. Frozen soup can last for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions
When you want to enjoy your soup again, reheat it gently. Pour the soup into a pot and warm it on low heat. Stir it often to avoid sticking. This way, you keep the flavors intact. If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of broth or water. Stir well to mix. For a quick option, microwave it in a bowl. Cover it loosely to let steam escape. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps maintain the soup’s creamy texture.
FAQs
Common Questions
How can I make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup vegan?
You can easily make this soup vegan. Just use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Make sure your vegetable broth is also vegan. This way, you keep all the rich flavor.
Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes. Choose high-quality canned tomatoes for the best taste. They can save time and still give a nice flavor. Just skip the roasting step since they are already cooked.
What can I serve with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Grilled cheese sandwiches are also a classic choice. You can add a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra flavor.
How long does Roasted Tomato Basil Soup last in the fridge?
Store the soup in the fridge for up to five days. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Additional Queries
What’s the difference between celery and onion in the soup?
Onion adds sweetness and depth to the soup. Celery has a fresh, crisp flavor. You can use either, but onion is more common in this recipe. Both can enhance the taste if used together.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
This blog post covered how to make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. We discussed key ingredients like tomatoes, onion, and garlic. I shared step-by-step instructions for prepping, roasting, and blending your soup. You also learned tips to enhance flavor and variations to try. Lastly, I provided important storage and reheating advice.
Making this soup is fun and rewarding. You can adjust it to your taste and share it with others. Enjoy your delicious creation!
