If you’re searching for a comforting and delicious dish that warms both the heart and the soul, look no further than this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. This classic recipe combines the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes with fragrant basil to create a bowl of goodness that’s perfect any time of year. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering, this soup is sure to impress your family and friends. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to prepare! With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a homemade version that rivals even the finest restaurants. In this article, I will guide you through every stage of making this delightful soup—from selecting the freshest ingredients to tips for achieving that perfect creamy texture. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup!
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Roma Tomatoes: About two pounds of ripe Roma tomatoes yield the best flavor; look for those that are firm yet slightly soft.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Use about a cup of fresh basil leaves; they add vibrant flavor and aroma to your soup.
- Onion: One medium onion will provide sweetness; chop it finely for even cooking.
- Garlic Cloves: Three cloves of fresh garlic enhance the depth of flavor; crush or mince them before adding.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling over vegetables before roasting; it adds richness.
- Vegetable Broth: Four cups of vegetable broth serve as the base; choose low-sodium varieties for better control over saltiness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
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How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature allows the tomatoes to roast perfectly while developing their natural sweetness.
Step 2: Prepare Your Vegetables
Wash the Roma tomatoes thoroughly and cut them in half. Place them on a baking sheet along with chopped onions and minced garlic.
Step 3: Roast the Vegetables
Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle them with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until they are caramelized and tender.
Step 4: Blend Ingredients
Once roasted, transfer the vegetables into a blender or food processor. Add fresh basil leaves and vegetable broth. Blend until smooth.
Step 5: Heat It Up
Pour the blended mixture back into a pot over medium heat. Allow it to simmer for about five minutes; stirring occasionally helps meld the flavors.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Taste your soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot in bowls with additional basil leaves as garnish.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Select Ripe Tomatoes: Choosing ripe tomatoes enhances sweetness; avoid any bruised or overly soft ones.
- Basil Freshness: Always use fresh basil instead of dried; it makes a significant difference in flavor.
- Simmer Time: Letting your soup simmer longer allows flavors to deepen; aim for at least an additional ten minutes if time permits.
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How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare components of the Roasted Tomato Basil Soup in advance. Roast the tomatoes and blend them into a puree, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Chop fresh basil and keep it separate until serving for optimal freshness.
- Storing: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about five days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers, where it can last for up to three months. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
- Reheating: To reheat, pour the soup into a saucepan and warm over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for two to three minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
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Suggestions for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Use Fresh Ingredients
When making roasted tomato basil soup, always prioritize fresh ingredients. Fresh tomatoes and basil can elevate the flavor significantly. While canned tomatoes are convenient, they might lack the vibrant taste of ripe, in-season tomatoes. Additionally, fresh basil provides a fragrant aroma that dried herbs can’t replicate. If you choose to use canned tomatoes, opt for high-quality brands that contain minimal additives. The freshness of your ingredients will shine through in the final dish, creating a more delicious and authentic experience.
Balance Flavors
Achieving a perfect balance of flavors is crucial in any soup recipe, including roasted tomato basil soup. Ensure that the sweetness of the tomatoes is complemented by acidity from lemon juice or vinegar. Adding salt enhances flavors but be cautious not to overdo it; start with a small amount and adjust during cooking. You can also include a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic. Tasting as you go allows you to refine and harmonize all components, making your soup a delightful treat.
Avoid Over-Roasting Tomatoes
Over-roasting your tomatoes can lead to undesirable bitterness in your roasted tomato basil soup. Aim for a caramelization that enhances their natural sweetness but avoids charred edges. Roast them at a moderate temperature—around 400°F (200°C)—for about 25-30 minutes until they are nicely browned yet still juicy. Keep an eye on them as oven temperatures can vary. Properly roasted tomatoes form the base of a rich, flavorful soup that showcases their best qualities.
Mind Your Consistency
The consistency of your roasted tomato basil soup is vital for an enjoyable eating experience. Some prefer a creamy texture while others like it chunky. To achieve creaminess without heavy cream, consider blending part of the soup until smooth and leaving some chunks for texture. If your soup turns out too thick, add vegetable broth or water gradually until it reaches your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, simmer it longer to reduce and thicken naturally.
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FAQs
What type of tomatoes should I use for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
For the best flavor in roasted tomato basil soup, opt for ripe varieties like Roma or heirloom tomatoes. These types are known for their sweetness and low moisture content, making them ideal for roasting. If fresh options aren’t available, high-quality canned tomatoes work as an alternative but may lack some brightness compared to fresh ones. Look for whole peeled varieties packed in juice rather than puree or sauce to maintain better texture and flavor.
Can I make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Roasted tomato basil soup stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it convenient for meal prep or busy days. After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for three to four days or frozen for up to three months. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove while stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
How do I store leftover Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
To store leftover roasted tomato basil soup properly, let it cool down to room temperature first. Then transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate if you plan to eat it within three days or freeze it if you’ll enjoy it later. Make sure to label containers with dates for easy tracking. When reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
Can I add other vegetables or spices?
Yes! Feel free to customize your roasted tomato basil soup by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots during roasting for added depth of flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with spices such as red pepper flakes for heat or smoked paprika for a smoky note. Just remember that additional ingredients may alter cooking times slightly; adjust accordingly while tasting throughout the process.
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Conclusion for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Roasted tomato basil soup is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings comfort and warmth any time of year. By using fresh ingredients and balancing flavors carefully, you can create an exceptional bowl of soup that delights everyone at your table. Remember not to over-roast your tomatoes and pay attention to achieving just the right consistency based on personal preference; these details make all the difference! With proper storage techniques and creative variations using veggies or spices, this versatile recipe is sure to become a family favorite in no time.
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 portions 1x
Description
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting classic that beautifully marries the sweet, caramelized flavors of ripe Roma tomatoes with fragrant fresh basil, creating a warm and velvety bowl of goodness. This easy-to-make recipe requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings with friends and family. Each spoonful bursts with rich flavor, enhanced by garlic and onion, while the creamy texture invites you to savor every drop. Serve it alone or pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a delightful meal that warms both heart and soul.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh Roma tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 medium onion
- 3 garlic cloves
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Halve the Roma tomatoes and place them on a baking sheet with chopped onions and minced garlic.
- Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
- Blend the roasted vegetables with fresh basil and vegetable broth until smooth.
- Pour the mixture back into a pot, simmer for five minutes, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot.
Notes
For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating roasted bell peppers or carrots.
Adjust the soup’s consistency by blending more or less based on your preference.
Enhance flavor balance by adding a splash of lemon juice if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting/Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg