When the days grow shorter and the air takes on a crisp chill, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. This delightful dish, bursting with the flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, is perfect for cozy evenings at home or elegant gatherings with friends. The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a rich and savory base that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite crusty bread. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this heartwarming soup that captures the essence of comfort food, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare! With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant. The combination of roasted tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fresh basil creates a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
Moreover, this soup is highly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. For instance, if you prefer a creamier texture, a splash of heavy cream can elevate the dish, turning it into a luxurious experience. Conversely, for a lighter version, simply omit the cream and enjoy the soup in its purest form.
Additionally, this recipe is a fantastic way to use up those garden-fresh tomatoes during the peak of summer. The roasting process concentrates their flavor, resulting in a soup that is both delicious and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prep! Make a big batch and store it in the fridge or freezer for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Finally, serving Roasted Tomato Basil Soup garnished with fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup is sure to impress your guests and warm your heart.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Trying out this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup recipe is a decision you won’t regret. For starters, it’s packed with nutrients! Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, potassium, and folate, all of which contribute to a healthy diet. Basil, on the other hand, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is packed with antioxidants.
This recipe also allows for creativity in the kitchen. You can experiment with different spices and herbs to create variations of the soup that suit your palate. For example, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the soup a little kick, while a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds a savory richness that complements the flavors beautifully.
Moreover, the process of roasting vegetables is a culinary technique that can elevate many dishes. The caramelization that occurs during roasting adds a complex flavor that simply cannot be achieved through boiling or steaming. Once you master this technique with tomatoes, you’ll find yourself using it in various recipes, making your meals even more delicious.
Lastly, this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is an excellent option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diets. It’s entirely vegan if you skip the cream, making it a great choice for anyone following a plant-based lifestyle or simply looking to eat more vegetables. It’s a comforting, hearty dish that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary preferences.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Necessary Utensils
- Large baking sheet
- Large pot
- Immersion blender (or regular blender)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon for stirring
Having the right tools on hand can make the cooking process more enjoyable and efficient. An immersion blender is especially handy for this recipe, allowing you to puree the soup directly in the pot without the hassle of transferring hot liquid to a blender.
Detailed Recipe Steps
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your tomatoes roast evenly and develop that delicious caramelized flavor.
- Prepare the Tomatoes: On a large baking sheet, place the halved tomatoes, chopped onion, and peeled garlic cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until all the vegetables are well-coated with the olive oil.
- Roast the Vegetables: Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the tomatoes are caramelized and the onions are tender and golden.
- Blend the Soup: Once the vegetables are roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer everything into a large pot. Add the vegetable broth and sugar if you’re using it. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add Basil: Stir in the fresh basil leaves and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the basil to infuse its flavor into the soup.
- Puree the Soup: Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender and blend until smooth.
- Add Cream: For a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream at this stage. This step is optional but adds a delightful richness to the soup.
- Season to Taste: Taste your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This is your chance to make sure it’s perfect!
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your delicious roasted tomato basil soup with some crusty bread on the side!
FAQs
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. However, roasting fresh tomatoes enhances their flavor, making the soup taste even better.
How can I make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup vegan?
To make this soup vegan, simply omit the heavy cream or substitute it with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut cream or cashew cream.
How do I store leftover Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage; just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion.
What can I serve with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a fresh salad. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
Is Roasted Tomato Basil Soup healthy?
Yes! It’s packed with vitamins from the tomatoes and basil, making it a nutritious choice. Just be mindful of the cream if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Conclusion
In summary, Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. With its ease of preparation and versatile nature, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below, and if you enjoyed this recipe, consider sharing it with friends and family. Happy cooking!
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Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Large Pot
- Immersion Blender
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds Ripe tomatoes, halved
- 1 Medium onion, chopped
- 4 Garlic cloves, peeled
- 1/4 cup Olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Sugar (optional)
- 1 cup Fresh basil leaves, packed
- 4 cups Vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup Heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a large baking sheet, place the halved tomatoes, chopped onion, and garlic cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the tomatoes are caramelized and the onions are tender.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the roasted vegetables into a large pot. Add the vegetable broth and sugar (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Stir in the fresh basil leaves and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.
- If desired, stir in the heavy cream for a richer flavor and creamier texture.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve and enjoy your delicious roasted tomato basil soup!