Warm up your kitchen with my Roasted Tomato Basil Soup recipe! It’s a perfect blend of fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and rich flavors. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this soup brings comfort and joy in each bite. I’ll guide you through easy steps, tips, and variations that make it truly yours. Ready to taste something amazing? Let’s dive into this delicious soup together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: This soup showcases the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, making it a true taste of summer all year round.
- Simple Preparation: The roasting method is straightforward, allowing the natural sweetness of the vegetables to shine without complicated techniques.
- Versatile Dish: This soup can be enjoyed on its own or dressed up with cream and served alongside crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Comforting Flavor: It’s the perfect blend of savory and sweet, providing a warm and comforting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
For the best roasted tomato basil soup, gather these fresh ingredients:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved
– 1 medium onion, quartered
– 4 cloves garlic, unpeeled
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
– 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
– ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)
Identify Fresh vs. Dried Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients makes your soup taste bright and lively. Ripe tomatoes have a sweet flavor. They are the star of this dish. Fresh basil adds a vibrant aroma that dried herbs can’t match. You can use dried herbs in a pinch, but they won’t give the same fresh kick. Garlic should be fresh for the best flavor.
Nutritional Information
This soup is not only tasty but also healthy. Here’s a quick look at the nutrition per serving (assuming 6 servings):
– Calories: 150
– Protein: 3g
– Fat: 7g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fiber: 3g
– Sugar: 4g
Adding heavy cream raises the fat and calorie count. This soup is rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the tomatoes and basil. It’s a comforting choice that nourishes your body and soul.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). You want it nice and hot. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step makes cleanup easier. Take your 2 lbs of ripe tomatoes and cut them in half. Place them cut-side up on the sheet. Add the quartered onion and unpeeled garlic cloves.
Drizzle everything with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure each piece gets coated. Now, sprinkle some salt and pepper. This will bring out the flavors. Toss gently to coat all the veggies.
Roasting Techniques
Roast the vegetables in your preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes. You want them to caramelize and soften. Keep an eye on them. The tomatoes should look golden and the onions should be tender. Once done, remove them from the oven. Let them cool for a bit before handling.
Next, squeeze the roasted garlic from its skins into a pot. The garlic will be soft and sweet. Add the roasted tomatoes and onions to the pot.
Blending the Soup
Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth. This will give the soup its body. Heat it over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Toss in 1 cup of fresh basil leaves and 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar. If you like, add 1 teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity.
Now comes the fun part. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If you want a creamier texture, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream now. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Let it simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes to warm through.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your cozy bowl of roasted tomato basil soup!
Tips & Tricks
Substitutions for Ingredients
You can swap fresh tomatoes with canned ones. Use two 28-ounce cans of whole tomatoes. If you don’t have fresh basil, try dried basil. Use one teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh. No heavy cream? Use coconut milk for a dairy-free option. You can also add extra broth to thin the soup if it gets too thick.
Adjusting Flavor Profiles
Want a spicier soup? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when roasting. If you like it sweet, add more sugar to balance the acidity. You can also squeeze in some lemon juice for a fresh zing. If you want a deeper flavor, try roasting the garlic longer until it’s golden. Taste and tweak until it matches your perfect flavor!
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot in deep bowls. Add a swirl of olive oil on top for a nice finish. Garnish with whole basil leaves for a fresh touch. For a heartier meal, pair it with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches. You can also add croutons for added crunch. Enjoy it with friends or family for a cozy meal!
Pro Tips
- Use Ripe Tomatoes: The flavor of your soup largely depends on the quality of the tomatoes. Opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best taste.
- Roast for Depth: Roasting the vegetables enhances their natural sugars and adds depth to the flavor. Don’t skip this essential step!
- Adjust Acidity: Depending on the tomatoes used, you may need to adjust the acidity. Adding a teaspoon of sugar can help balance the flavors if the soup is too tangy.
- Blend for Creaminess: For a silky smooth texture, use an immersion blender. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of the mixture.
Variations
Vegan Adaptation
You can easily make this soup vegan. Just skip the heavy cream. Instead, use a splash of coconut milk for creaminess. It adds a nice flavor. You can also add more vegetables. Try carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
Adding Proteins or Grains
To make your soup heartier, add proteins or grains. Lentils work well and cook fast. You can also use cooked quinoa. These options add fiber and protein. Toss them into the pot before blending. This makes your soup filling and satisfying.
Flavor Infusions (e.g., spices or herbs)
Get creative with spices and herbs! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh thyme or oregano can boost the flavor too. If you want a smoky taste, try adding smoked paprika. These little tweaks make a big difference. Experiment and find your favorite mix!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
You can store leftover roasted tomato basil soup in the fridge. Keep it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To help maintain flavor, let the soup cool before sealing it.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is a great way to keep this soup longer. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top, as liquids expand when frozen. It will last about 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, you can use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, pour the soup into a pot. Heat it over medium heat until warm. Stir it often to avoid sticking. In the microwave, use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. Always check the temperature before serving.
FAQs
How long does roasted tomato basil soup last?
Roasted tomato basil soup lasts about 4 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. This keeps the soup fresh and tasty. If you want it to last longer, you can freeze it. In the freezer, it can last for up to 3 months.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes. They work well in this soup. Choose high-quality canned tomatoes for the best taste. You may skip roasting if you use canned ones. Just cook them with the other ingredients. The flavor will still be good, but fresh tomatoes add a special touch.
What to serve with roasted tomato basil soup?
Roasted tomato basil soup pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options:
– Crusty bread or baguette
– Grilled cheese sandwiches
– A fresh garden salad
– Garlic bread
– Parmesan crisps
These sides make your meal more filling and fun.
Is roasted tomato basil soup healthy?
Yes, roasted tomato basil soup is quite healthy. It is low in calories and packed with vitamins. Tomatoes are full of antioxidants, which are good for your body. Fresh basil adds flavor and health benefits too. If you want a creamier soup, add heavy cream, but it can increase calories. You can skip it for a lighter option.
In this blog post, we explored how to make roasted tomato basil soup. We listed ingredients, showed how to tell fresh from dried, and shared nutrition info. I provided step-by-step guides on prep, roasting, and blending. You learned tips on swaps and flavor tweaks, plus delicious variations for vegan options. Finally, I explained storage tips for keeping your soup fresh.
Now, you’re ready to enjoy a tasty, healthy soup anytim
