Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and healthy soup, look no further than Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. This classic dish is not only delicious but incredibly easy to prepare. The natural sweetness of roasted tomatoes combined with the aromatic freshness of basil creates a rich and vibrant flavor that’s perfect for any season. Whether you’re preparing a cozy meal for yourself or impressing guests, this homemade soup is sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup:

• 6 large ripe tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium onion, quartered
• 4 garlic cloves, peeled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a dairy-free option)

Instructions:

this recipe

1. Roast the Tomatoes, Onion, and Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the halved tomatoes, quartered onion, and garlic cloves on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast the vegetables in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly charred.
2. Blend the Roasted Veggies: Once roasted, remove the vegetables from the oven. Allow them to cool slightly, then transfer them to a blender or food processor. Add the fresh basil leaves and dried oregano (if using). Blend until smooth. For a smoother texture, you can strain the mixture to remove any skins or seeds.
3. Simmer the Soup: Pour the blended mixture into a large pot and add the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Add Cream for Richness: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream to add a velvety texture and richness to your soup. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with a few extra basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil, and serve hot with a side of crusty bread or grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort meal.

Why You’ll Love Roasted Tomato Basil Soup:

1. Rich in Flavor: Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, creating a deep, rich flavor. The basil complements the tomatoes perfectly, offering a fresh, aromatic lift to each spoonful.
2. Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and essential nutrients from tomatoes and basil, this soup is as healthy as it is delicious. It’s also an excellent source of fiber, making it a great option for anyone looking to eat clean.
3. Easy to Make: Despite its rich, complex flavors, Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is straightforward to prepare. It’s a great choice for beginners or busy individuals looking for a quick and easy meal.
4. Customizable: You can adjust the creaminess of the soup by using more or less cream, or opt for coconut cream for a dairy-free version. You can also add more herbs or spices to tailor the flavor to your preferences.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion: This soup is perfect for chilly evenings, lunch gatherings, or as a starter for a more elaborate meal. Its comforting qualities make it a popular choice for any occasion, from casual dinners to holiday feasts.

Tips for the Best Roasted Tomato Basil Soup:

• Use Ripe Tomatoes: The quality of the tomatoes makes a significant difference. Opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Roast Longer for Extra Flavor: If you prefer a deeper, smokier flavor, feel free to roast the tomatoes, garlic, and onions for an extra 10-15 minutes.
• Make it Vegan: To make the soup vegan, substitute the cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream alternative.

Conclusion:

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a hearty, flavorful dish. Whether you’re enjoying it as a meal or serving it as an appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Easy to make, rich in flavor, and packed with nutrients, this soup is perfect for any time of the year. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite bread or sandwich for the ultimate comfort food experience!

Serving and Storage Tips for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Serving Tips:

1. Garnish for Extra Flavor: Enhance the flavor and presentation by garnishing your soup with a few fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. For a fun twist, add croutons or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top.
2. Pair with Sides: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich, a warm baguette, or a fresh mixed salad to make the meal more satisfying.
3. Add Spice for a Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your soup for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Serve in Style: Present your soup in individual bowls or even in rustic mugs for a cozy, homey feel. It also works beautifully in larger serving bowls for family-style meals.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerating: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
2. Freezing: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is freezer-friendly! After cooling, transfer the soup to a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop until warm.
3. Avoid Freezing Cream-Based Soups: If your soup contains cream, the texture may change after freezing. To help prevent separation, consider adding the cream after reheating the soup, just before serving.
4. Portioning for Convenience: If you like to meal prep, consider dividing the soup into individual serving portions before storing. This way, you can easily reheat just the right amount without needing to defrost the entire batch.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup for days, ensuring both convenience and continued deliciousness!

1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh tomatoes are unavailable. Opt for high-quality canned whole or diced tomatoes for the best flavor. However, roasting fresh tomatoes adds a unique depth and sweetness, so the flavor may differ slightly. If using canned tomatoes, skip the roasting step and simply simmer them with garlic, onion, and basil.

2. Can I make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Prepare the soup in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop.

3. Is this soup suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes! To make the Roasted Tomato Basil Soup vegan, simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or another plant-based cream alternative, such as cashew cream. This will provide a creamy texture without any dairy.

4. Can I freeze Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
Yes, Roasted Tomato Basil Soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge and heat it on the stovetop. If you added cream, consider stirring it in after reheating to maintain the soup’s creamy consistency.

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