Description
Tomato Basil Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for transitioning from summer to fall. This homemade soup features roasted Roma tomatoes blended with fresh basil and thyme, creating a rich and flavorful experience. Ideal for pairing with crusty bread or grilled cheese, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Soup:
- 2½ pounds Roma tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- ⅓ cup chopped carrots
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 loosely packed cup fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
Instructions
- Roast the Tomatoes:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the halved Roma tomatoes cut-side up on the baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 1 hour until the tomatoes are slightly shriveled but still juicy.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, garlic, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Add the roasted tomatoes, vegetable broth, balsamic vinegar, and thyme leaves to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Blend and Serve:
- Allow the soup to cool slightly, then transfer it to a blender and puree until smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
- Add the fresh basil leaves to the blender and pulse until just combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve with crusty bread or grilled cheese.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of cream or milk.
- If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend the soup longer or strain it after blending.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting, Sautéing, Simmering, Blending
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: mg