The Best Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

There’s something purely comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially during chilly evenings or rainy days. You’ve just come home from a long, hectic day, and the last thing you want to do is cook an elaborate dinner. But what if I told you that with just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you could whip up The Best Roasted Tomato Basil Soup? This recipe perfectly captures the essence of home cooking—nourishing, simple, and bursting with flavor. It’s a lifesaver for busy individuals and families who crave delicious and wholesome meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

This roasted tomato basil soup is not just any soup; it’s a delightful blend of sweet roasted tomatoes, aromatic basil, and dynamic flavors that uplift your spirit. Moreover, it caters to the needs of busy individuals seeking quick yet satisfying meal solutions. Whether you’re juggling work, family, or personal commitments, this soup is incredibly easy to prepare. You’ll find yourself simply roasting the tomatoes while the house fills with a heavenly aroma, then blending everything into a velvety smooth consistency. The entire cooking process takes less than an hour, making this recipe a perfect weeknight dinner option. Not to mention, it’s plant-based, gluten-free, and can be easily customized to fit your dietary preferences!

Picture this: You come home from your day, feeling a bit tired. You want to eat something hearty but don’t want to deal with complicated recipes that call for numerous steps. That’s where this roasted tomato basil soup shines. It lets you enjoy a delightful gourmet experience while keeping the cooking process stress-free and enjoyable. Plus, it is just as delicious served hot as it is when it cools down, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. So let’s transform those humble tomatoes into a vibrant bowl of deliciousness!

Practical Tips / Cooking Tips

• Choosing the Right Tomatoes: For the best flavor, opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes like Roma or heirloom tomatoes. Look for tomatoes that feel heavy for their size and have a vibrant color.
• Roasting Technique: Roasting tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the flavors. Don’t skip this step! Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast until caramelized.
• Fresh vs. Dried Basil: Fresh basil leaves impart a bright and refreshing note to the soup. However, if you have dried basil, use it sparingly as it’s more concentrated in flavor.
• Texture Matters: Blend thoroughly for a smooth texture, but if you prefer a chunkier soup, pulse the ingredients until just combined.

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

This roasted tomato basil soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, potassium, and folate. They contain antioxidants like lycopene, which may help to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses. Basil isn’t just an aromatic herb; it’s also loaded with essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, calcium, and iron. Using olive oil in the recipe adds healthy monounsaturated fats that can help protect your heart. Each bowl of this soup can contribute to a well-balanced diet, making it an excellent addition to any health-conscious meal plan.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients

Ingredients	Substitution Options
2 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved	1.5 lbs canned tomatoes (if fresh is not available)
1 medium onion, chopped	Shallots or leeks can be used for a sweeter flavor
3 cloves garlic, minced	Garlic powder (1 tsp) if fresh is unavailable
4 cups vegetable broth	Chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version
1 cup fresh basil leaves	2 tbsp dried basil (but adjust to taste)
2 tbsp olive oil	Canola oil or coconut oil
Salt and pepper to taste	Herbs de Provence for additional flavor

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the key step for roasting the tomatoes to perfection.
2. Prepare the Tomatoes: Halve the tomatoes and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Roast the Vegetables: Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes, until they begin to caramelize and their juices flavor your kitchen.
4. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat an additional tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted tomatoes (include all juices), broth, and basil to the pot. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a countertop blender, blend, and return it to the pot.
7. Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary. Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh basil as a garnish!

FAQ

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This roasted tomato basil soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days. It also freezes beautifully for up to three months. Just reheat it gently on the stove or microwave before serving.

Is this soup vegan?

Yes, this recipe is plant-based and vegan-friendly! It uses vegetable broth, and all the ingredients are free from animal products.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combination. A fresh salad can also complement the meal beautifully.

Can I add cream to the soup?

If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to stir in some heavy cream or coconut cream just before serving. It will add richness to the soup.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?

If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil. Just be mindful to use a smaller amount as dried herbs are more concentrated. Start with 1-2 teaspoons and adjust according to your taste.

Conclusion

This roasted tomato basil soup is not only a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire but also a comforting and nourishing dish perfect for any occasion. With its easy preparation and rich flavors, it promises to become a family favorite. I encourage you to give this simple yet sophisticated recipe a try—your weeknight dinners will never be the same! Serve it up with some artisan bread, and you have a warming meal that your whole family will enjoy. Happy cooking!

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