When you want a warm and tasty meal, nothing beats roasted tomato basil soup. I’ll guide you through a simple recipe that bursts with rich flavor. Using fresh ingredients, you can create a comforting dish in no time. Plus, I’ll share tips for variations and common mistakes to avoid. Ready to dive in? Let’s make this delightful soup together and savor each spoonful!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh Flavors: This soup captures the essence of summer with its ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil, creating a vibrant flavor profile that’s both refreshing and comforting.
- Simple Preparation: The roasting process allows for easy preparation, transforming simple ingredients into a deliciously rich soup with minimal effort.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer it creamy or without cream, this soup can be tailored to your taste, making it a versatile option for any meal.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe makes a generous batch, ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends, and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
To make a great roasted tomato basil soup, gather these key items:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved
– 1 medium onion, quartered
– 5 cloves garlic, unpeeled
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
These ingredients create a rich and tasty base. The tomatoes give the soup its sweetness, while the garlic and onion add depth. The fresh basil brings a bright, herbal note.
Optional Ingredients for Flavor Enhancement
For added flavor, consider these optional ingredients:
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (for a creamy texture)
Red pepper flakes add heat, while balsamic vinegar enhances sweetness. Heavy cream provides a rich finish. You can mix and match based on your taste.
Nutritional Information
This roasted tomato basil soup is not only tasty but also healthy. Here is a simple breakdown:
– Calories: 180 per serving
– Protein: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 7g
– Fiber: 3g
This soup is low in calories but high in flavor. It offers vitamins and minerals from the tomatoes and basil.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved
– 1 medium onion, quartered
– 5 cloves garlic, unpeeled
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large baking dish for the tomatoes, onion, and garlic. Halve the tomatoes and quarter the onion. Leave the garlic unpeeled for roasting.
Roasting Tomatoes and Aromatics
Place the halved tomatoes, quartered onion, and unpeeled garlic in the baking dish. Drizzle them with olive oil. Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Toss everything well to coat.
Roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes. Watch for the tomatoes to caramelize and the onions to soften. The aroma will fill your kitchen! Once they are done, take them out and let them cool a bit. Peel the garlic cloves after cooling.
Blending and Final Cooking Steps
In a large pot, combine the roasted tomatoes, onions, garlic, and vegetable broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 10 minutes.
Next, add fresh basil leaves and balsamic vinegar to the pot. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer it in batches to a regular blender.
For a creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream now. Adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if you need to. Finally, heat the soup gently over low heat until it’s warm. Serve it in warm bowls, garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy with rustic bread!
Pro Tips
- Use Ripe Tomatoes: The flavor of the soup greatly depends on the quality of the tomatoes. Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best taste.
- Don’t Skip the Garlic: Roasting the garlic unpeeled not only adds depth to the flavor but also makes it easier to peel after roasting.
- Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a chunkier soup, reserve some of the roasted tomatoes before blending and stir them back in after pureeing.
- Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with additional herbs like thyme or oregano for a unique twist, or add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor and Texture
To boost the taste of your roasted tomato basil soup, use fresh ingredients. Fresh basil adds bright flavor. Roasting the garlic with the tomatoes makes it sweet and rich. You can also add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. If you want a creamier soup, stir in some heavy cream. For an extra layer of taste, add a splash of balsamic vinegar. This enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is not using ripe tomatoes. Choose firm, red tomatoes for the best flavor. Avoid overcooking the garlic; keep the cloves unpeeled until after roasting. This prevents burning. Also, don’t skip the blending step! Blending helps create a smooth texture. Lastly, remember to taste before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed to make sure it’s just right.
Best Practices for Serving
Serve your soup hot in warm bowls. This keeps the soup at the right temperature. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. A drizzle of olive oil or a swirl of cream can make it look fancy. Pair the soup with rustic bread for delicious dipping. This simple addition makes each bite better.
Variations
Vegan Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
You can easily make this soup vegan. Just skip the heavy cream. The soup is still creamy and rich from the roasted tomatoes. Use vegetable broth as your base. You can also add a splash of coconut milk for added creaminess without dairy. This keeps the vibrant flavor intact while making it plant-based.
Gluten-Free Options
This soup is naturally gluten-free. The ingredients do not include any gluten sources. Just make sure your vegetable broth is gluten-free, as some brands may add gluten. The rest of the recipe is safe, allowing everyone to enjoy this comforting bowl of soup.
Creative Add-ins and Flavors
You can make this soup your own with fun add-ins. Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky twist. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can elevate the taste. For a kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can even add a handful of spinach or kale for extra greens. These changes keep the soup exciting and full of flavor.
Storage Information
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftovers, let the soup cool first. Then, pour the cooled soup into an airtight container. Make sure to seal it well. This way, the soup stays fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option.
Freezing Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Freezing is simple! First, cool the soup completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. You can also use freezer bags for easy storage. Try to remove as much air as possible before sealing. This soup can last up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, take the soup out of the fridge or freezer. If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight or use the microwave. For stovetop reheating, pour the soup into a pot. Heat it over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until warm. If you prefer, you can also use a microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Enjoy your soup warm for a cozy meal!
FAQs
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
You can use coconut milk or cashew cream. Both add creaminess without dairy. You can also try using whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter option. If you want it rich, choose full-fat coconut milk. Each option gives a unique taste and texture.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes. Choose whole or crushed tomatoes for the best flavor. Canned tomatoes are often picked at peak ripeness, making them sweet and tasty. Just remember to drain excess liquid to avoid a watery soup.
How do I make this soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the soup. Start with a small amount, and taste as you go. You can also include jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a smoky flavor, try adding smoked paprika.
What are the health benefits of roasted tomatoes and basil?
Roasted tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene. Lycopene may help reduce the risk of certain cancers. Basil has anti-inflammatory properties and can support digestion. Together, they create a nutritious and tasty dish. Eating this soup can boost your health while delighting your taste buds.
This blog post covers everything you need for roasted tomato basil soup. We discussed key ingredients and added flavor tips. I shared easy steps for roasting and blending. You learned how to avoid common mistakes and serve the soup best. I also gave ideas for variations and storage tips.
In conclusion, this soup is healthy, tasty, and easy to make. Enjoy trying new flavors and variations!
