Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of roasted tomato basil soup, especially on a chilly evening or a busy weeknight. Imagine coming home after a long day, and the rich, savory aroma fills your kitchen, promising a delicious meal that practically cooks itself. This roasted tomato basil soup is not only super easy to make but it’s also versatile enough to fit into your weekly meal prep. Ready to dive into a recipe that will become a staple in your household? Let’s explore why you will love this roasted tomato basil soup!

Why You Will Love This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Picture this: it’s a weeknight, and you’re rushed after a long day at work. You want something healthy, comforting, and quick to prepare for dinner. This roasted tomato basil soup checks all those boxes! It’s the perfect answer for busy lives, as it requires minimal active cooking time while giving you a deeply satisfying meal. Roasting the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness and flavor, resulting in a soup that doesn’t just fill you up but warms your soul.

Whether you prefer it as an appetizer, paired with a crunchy grilled cheese sandwich, or as a light main dish, this soup caters to everyone. It’s also a delight for families; kids love the smooth texture and rich taste that can be customized with a touch of cream or by adding a sprinkle of cheese on top. Plus, the smell wafting through your home while it cooks is sure to create a cozy atmosphere that invites everyone to the table.

Practical Tips / Cooking Tips

• Choose ripe tomatoes: For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes. If fresh tomatoes are unavailable, canned ones can be a great alternative.
• Adjust the seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak herb and salt levels according to your preference. A little extra pepper or even a hint of chili flakes can elevate the flavors!
• Blend properly: For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender or a stand blender, ensuring the soup is smooth before serving.

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

This roasted tomato basil soup isn’t just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrients! Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to many health benefits, including improved heart health. Basil adds a fresh flavor and is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional benefits:

• Low in calories: Perfect for a light meal.
• High in vitamins: Tomatoes and basil provide vitamins C, K, and A.
• Heart-healthy: The nutrients found in this soup support cardiovascular health.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients

Ingredient	Substitution Options
Fresh tomatoes	Canned tomatoes
Fresh basil leaves	Dried basil
Onion	Shallots, leeks
Garlic	Garlic powder (to taste)
Olive oil	Canola oil, butter
Vegetable broth	Chicken broth (for non-vegetarians)
Salt and pepper	Other preferred seasonings

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the tomatoes: Wash and slice the fresh tomatoes in half. Lay them cut-side up on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast the tomatoes: Bake for 25-30 minutes until they are caramelized and bursting with flavor.
4. Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to burn it.
5. Add roasted tomatoes: Once the tomatoes are out of the oven, add them to the pot along with any juices. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
6. Simmer: Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes to blend the flavors.
7. Blend: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend only half the soup.
8. Stir in basil: Add fresh basil leaves and stir them into the soup. Let it cook for a few more minutes.
9. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil or a drizzle of cream if desired.

FAQ

Can I make roasted tomato basil soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a little water or broth if it thickens too much.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just make sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.

Can I use other vegetables in this soup?

Yes! Feel free to add other roasted vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. Just roast them alongside your tomatoes.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this roasted tomato basil soup is inherently gluten-free. Always check that any broth used is also certified gluten-free to ensure it fits your dietary needs.

What can I serve with roasted tomato basil soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh salad. You can also top it with croutons or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added flavor!

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few variations to consider:

• Add cream: For a richer version, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk after blending.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Herb variations: Experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano in addition to basil.

Conclusion with light call to action

Incorporating this roasted tomato basil soup into your meal rotation not only makes dinner simpler but incredibly satisfying, too. Perfect for busy nights or leisurely weekends, this recipe is sure to delight you and your loved ones! If you try it out, don’t forget to comment below how it turned out or share your own twists on the recipe. Happy cooking!

Print