Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Last weekend, I had the joy of preparing Roasted Tomato Basil Soup for my family, and let me tell you—it was an absolute hit! The rich flavors and the comforting aroma filled our kitchen, turning a regular evening into something special. My family, who can sometimes be picky eaters, couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was. Even the leftovers didn’t stand a chance! As someone who loves sharing recipes that bring people together, this is one I highly recommend trying.

Cooking is an art, but it’s also a way to connect with loved ones. Every dish tells a story, and this recipe is no different. As I was preparing it, I thought about how food brings us together—whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a special occasion, there’s always something magical about gathering around a table.

Why You’ll Love Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

• Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
• Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

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Ingredients

Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll need. The full ingredient list and measurements are below in the recipe card.

• 8 medium tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium onion, quartered
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for creamier soup)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even roasting and brings out the sweetness in the tomatoes.
2. Prepare the Tomatoes:
   • Place the halved tomatoes and quartered onion on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 25–30 minutes until the tomatoes are soft and caramelized.
3. Blend the Soup:
   • Transfer the roasted tomatoes and onions into a blender or food processor. Add the vegetable broth and fresh basil leaves. Blend until smooth.
4. Simmer the Soup:
   • Pour the blended mixture into a pot and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Finish the Soup:
   • Stir in the balsamic vinegar (if using) and heavy cream (for a creamy version). Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Garnish:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm with a side of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.

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Notes

• For a smoother soup, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve after blending to remove any seeds or skin.
• Feel free to skip the cream for a lighter, dairy-free version. You can also substitute with coconut cream for a vegan option.
• This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches or a side salad for a complete meal.

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Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

35–40 minutes

Total Time:

45 minutes

Yield:

4 servings

Category:

Soup

Method:

Roasting, Blending

Cuisine:

Italian, Vegetarian

Diet:

Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Vegan (if using coconut cream)

Keywords:

roasted tomato soup, basil soup, creamy tomato soup, homemade soup, vegan soup, vegetarian tomato soup, healthy soup, easy soup recipe, comfort food, fall recipes

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Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 150 kcal
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

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How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup:

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
• Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.
• Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
• As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.

Presentation Tip: Serve the soup in a beautiful bowl and garnish with a sprig of basil. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of grated cheese can elevate the look.

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Additional Tips:

• Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
• Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular flour for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to preserve the texture and flavor.
• Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.

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FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute tomatoes with canned tomatoes?
A1: Yes! If fresh tomatoes are not in season, you can use canned tomatoes. Use about 2 cans of whole tomatoes, drained, and proceed with the recipe as usual.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, this soup is great for make-ahead meals. Prepare the soup and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it before serving.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Let the soup cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! Just ensure you have a larger pot or saucepan to accommodate the extra soup. Cooking time may need slight adjustments.

Q7: Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
A7: Yes! For a vegan version, simply skip the heavy cream or use coconut cream as a substitute.

Q8: What side dishes go well with this recipe?
A8: Great options include grilled cheese, a side salad, or roasted vegetables like zucchini and carrots.

Q9: How can I make this dish healthier?
A9: You can use low-sodium vegetable broth and reduce or skip the cream. Adding extra veggies like carrots or bell peppers is another great way to boost nutrition.

Q10: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe?
A10: A Dutch oven or large soup pot works best for this recipe, as it allows even heat distribution and plenty of room for the soup to simmer.

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