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Best Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

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Introduction

Is there anything more comforting than a warm, velvety bowl of soup on a crisp day? It feels like a hug from the inside, especially when it’s a classic made with love. Today, we’re diving into a timeless favorite that transforms simple ingredients into something truly magical: our ultimate Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. This recipe is a staple in my kitchen because it delivers rich, deep flavor with minimal effort, so you can enjoy a gourmet experience any night of the week.

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a quintessential comfort food that elevates the humble tomato to new heights. Unlike a quick stovetop version, this method involves roasting the tomatoes, garlic, and onions to caramelize their natural sugars. This crucial step creates an incredibly rich and complex flavor base that is simply unforgettable. The soup perfectly aligns with our blog’s mission of creating easy weeknight dinners that don’t sacrifice taste for convenience. Moreover, its creamy texture and vibrant taste make it an ideal starter for a dinner party or a simple, satisfying meal with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. It’s a versatile dish that celebrates fresh, wholesome ingredients while being naturally vegan-friendly when you omit the optional cream.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely adore this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup because it connects me to cherished memories. My grandmother always had a pot simmering on her stove, and the aroma of roasting tomatoes and garlic instantly transports me back to her cozy kitchen. I love how this recipe feels both elegant and utterly simple, making it my go-to for both busy nights and when I want to impress guests without any stress. It’s a bowl of pure, uncomplicated joy.

Health and Nutrition

Why it’s good for your body

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup delivers outstanding health benefits because its core ingredients are nutritional powerhouses. The roasting process caramelizes the tomatoes, which significantly increases your body’s ability to absorb lycopene. This potent antioxidant supports heart health and may even help protect your skin from sun damage.

You also get a wonderful boost of vitamins A and C from this delicious soup, so your immune system gets the support it needs. Fresh basil adds essential vitamins and natural anti-inflammatory compounds, making each bowl a true wellness elixir. Although the flavor is rich and complex, you are consuming a meal made from simple, whole foods. Even on a busy day, you can enjoy this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup because it nourishes your body efficiently. So, include this fantastic Roasted Tomato Basil Soup in your routine for a tasty path to better health.

How it fits in a healthy lifestyle

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup seamlessly integrates into a balanced diet. It acts as a perfect light lunch or a comforting starter for dinner, providing hydration and vital nutrients without excessive calories. For those with specific dietary goals, this soup is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan by using a plant-based cream alternative.

It is an excellent choice for meal prepping, as you can make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week, supporting consistent healthy eating habits. Pair your soup with a whole wheat garlic bread for a satisfying fiber boost. You can also turn it into a more substantial meal by adding a protein like grilled chicken or a scoop of lemony herb white beans. This versatility makes it a practical and delicious staple for everyday wellness.

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Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

  • Author: Kris Longwell
  • Total Time: 100 mins
  • Yield: 8 people 1x
Print Recipe

Description

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is the ultimate in comfort. Roasting the tomatoes gives the soup a deep, rich flavor. And over-the-top good with grilled cheese sandwiches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 9 Roma tomatoes (sliced lengthwise)
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 yellow onion (diced)
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme (minced)
  • 1 tsp Kosher salt
  • ½ tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 28 oz. can San Marzano tomatoes (crushed)
  • 1 cup basil (fresh, roughly chopped)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • 2/3 cup heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. Spread tomato halves on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and then sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
  3. Roast tomatoes for 1 hour. Remove from oven and set aside.
  4. Heat 2 tbsp oil, or butter, in a large pot (or Dutch oven) over medium-high heat.
  5. Add onion, and saute for about 5 minutes.
  6. Stir in the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté for another minute.
  7. Add crushed tomatoes, basil, and sugar to the pot. Lower the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
  8. Add the stock and the roasted tomatoes into the pot. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring every now and then.
  9. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup, or very carefully transfer to a blender or food processor to purée. This would most likely need to be done in a couple batches. Return the soup to the pot.
  10. Stir in the cream.
  11. To make the mini croutons: Cut a few small pieces of bread in small cubes, add a little oil, diced garlic and basil…bake at 400 for about 7 minutes… these make wonderful croutons!
  12. Add the croutons to the top of the served soup. Serve at once!

Notes

For best results, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. If using a regular blender, work in batches and be careful as hot soup expands. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to prevent the cream from separating.

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 80 mins
  • Method: Soup
  • Cuisine: Soup

Nutrition

  • Calories: 190
  • Sugar: 5
  • Sodium: 389
  • Fat: 12
  • Saturated Fat: 5
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 9
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 3
  • Cholesterol: 37

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s-dish">How to Prepare This Dish

Steps and time-saving tips

First, preheat your oven to 400°F to get it nice and hot for roasting. Meanwhile, halve your tomatoes and arrange them on a large, rimmed baking sheet along with the onion and garlic cloves. Next, generously drizzle everything with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast the vegetables for about 40 minutes until they develop beautifully caramelized edges. This roasting step builds an incredible depth of flavor for your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. For a fantastic time-saving tip, use a pair of kitchen shears to quickly snip the basil leaves directly into the pot later. Once the vegetables finish roasting, carefully transfer them into a large pot or Dutch oven. Then, add your vegetable broth and use an immersion blender to puree everything until completely smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully blend the soup in batches using a standard countertop blender. Finally, stir in the fresh basil and cream, then gently warm the soup through on the stove before serving.

Mistakes I’ve made and learned from

I have definitely learned a few lessons the hard way with this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. Initially, I used to overcrowd the baking sheet, which steamed the tomatoes instead of roasting them. Now, I always use two sheets if necessary to ensure everything caramelizes properly. Another mistake was blending the soup while it was too hot, leading to a messy and dangerous explosion. Always let it cool for a few minutes first! For the best results, make sure you use the right soup making equipment, like a good quality immersion blender. Also, do not skip the fresh basil at the end; it makes a world of difference, much like the fresh herbs in my favorite Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe.

n-and-variations">Cultural Connection and Variations

Where this recipe comes from

The story of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup feels like a warm hug from generations past. Although many cultures have their own version of tomato soup, the specific combination of roasting the tomatoes and using fresh basil has deep roots in Mediterranean home cooking, particularly in Italy and the south of France. Families would traditionally prepare large batches at the end of summer, when tomatoes were at their peak ripeness and basil plants were overflowing.

This wasn’t just a meal because it was a way to preserve the vibrant taste of the season. In many Italian households, nonnas would slowly simmer a pot on the stove for hours, but the method of roasting is a more modern twist that concentrates the tomatoes’ natural sugars, creating an incredible depth of flavor. The beautiful simplicity of this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, with its holy trinity of tomato, basil, and olive oil, has made it a timeless classic that feels both rustic and elegant.

How it fits in today’s cooking

This soup remains a beloved staple in today’s kitchens because it perfectly bridges the gap between comforting tradition and modern, health-conscious eating. It’s a star player for seasonal meals, especially when you’re looking for the best easy fall dinner ideas to transition from summer’s bounty.

Even though the classic

version is divine, modern cooks love to reimagine it. Some swirl in a spoonful of pesto for an extra herbal punch, while others add a can of white beans or red lentils to make it more hearty and protein-packed. It also pairs beautifully with a simple, cheesy side, making it the perfect starter for a quick weeknight pasta dish. Whether you enjoy it smooth and silky or leave it a bit chunky for texture, this versatile soup continues to earn its place at our tables for both everyday lunches and cozy holiday gatherings.

Taste and Texture

What makes it delicious

The experience of this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup begins with its deep, complex aroma. Because the tomatoes and garlic are roasted, their sugars caramelize, creating a scent that is both sweet and savory. When you take your first spoonful, you immediately notice its luxuriously smooth and creamy texture, even without any heavy cream. This velvety base is punctuated by the rich, concentrated flavor of the tomatoes, which offer a beautiful balance of bright acidity and natural sweetness. Fresh basil then weaves its fragrant, slightly peppery notes throughout every bite, providing a garden-fresh counterpoint to the soup’s earthy depth. Although the soup is silky, a final swirl of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crunchy croutons introduces a delightful textural contrast. The overall flavor profile is incredibly comforting and robust, making each bowl feel like a warm embrace. Ultimately, this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a masterclass in balancing simplicity with profound, layered flavors that delight the senses from the first smell to the last taste.

r">Boosting the flavor

You can easily elevate your soup with a few simple tricks. For a richer, deeper flavor, try stirring in a spoonful of tomato paste for a minute before adding your broth. A dollop of creamy pesto swirled on top before serving adds a fantastic herbal punch and visual appeal, while a sprinkle of our homemade garlic croutons provides an essential crunchy contrast. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce will introduce a pleasant warmth. For an extra layer of creamy indulgence, a swirl of heavy cream or coconut milk creates a truly decadent finish. Do not forget the power of fresh herbs; a final garnish of chopped basil or even a bit of parsley brightens the entire dish. Consider serving your soup alongside a slice of warm, crusty no-knead bread for the ultimate comforting meal. Experimenting with these additions allows you to customize each bowl to your personal preference.

Tips for Success

Best practices for results

Always use ripe, in-season tomatoes for your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup because they offer the deepest, sweetest flavor after caramelizing in the oven. Furthermore, roast the tomatoes and garlic until they are deeply caramelized and slightly charred around the edges, as this process is essential for developing that signature rich, smoky-sweet base. For an incredibly smooth and velvety texture, you must use a high-powered blender to puree the soup, although a standard immersion blender can also work if you blend for a longer duration. Finally, stir in the fresh basil and cream off the heat to preserve their bright, fresh flavors and prevent any curdling in your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup.

>Mistakes to avoid

A common mistake is under-roasting the vegetables, which results in a soup that lacks depth and complexity, so make sure your tomatoes and garlic have significant color before removing them from the oven. Another error is adding the basil too early during the cooking process, because the delicate herbs will wilt and turn brown, losing their vibrant flavor; instead, always stir them in at the very end. Be cautious not to over-purée hot soup in a blender without venting the lid, as the steam pressure can cause a dangerous explosion, a technique we cover thoroughly in our guide on how to safely blend hot soups. Finally, avoid skipping the finishing touches, since a final swirl of good quality cream or a drizzle of a flavored oil elevates the entire dish, much like the techniques shown in our garnishing soups and stews article.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

How to serve this dish

For a truly inviting presentation, serve your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup in a beautiful, warm bowl. Next, consider a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a swirl of cream on top for a visually stunning effect. Furthermore, a final flourish of fresh basil leaves, homemade croutons, or a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese adds wonderful texture and flavor.

This soup is incredibly versatile for any occasion. It is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, yet it is also elegant enough for a holiday starter or a special weekend brunch. Ultimately, a warm bowl of this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup brings comfort and sophistication to your table with minimal effort.

h-it">What goes well with it

For the ultimate comfort food experience, pair your soup with a classic, gooey Grilled Cheese Sandwich. The crispy, buttery bread and melted cheese perfectly complement the soup’s rich and velvety texture for dipping. Alternatively, a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a fresh, crisp contrast that cleanses the palate between spoonfuls.

Regarding beverages, a chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea provides a refreshing counterpoint to the soup’s warmth. Moreover, for a more elevated pairing, a light Pinot Noir or a crisp Chardonnay beautifully mirrors the roasted tomato notes. Finally, don’t forget to check out our perfect Garlic Bread recipe for a side that is absolutely irresistible when dunked into this flavorful soup.

math-faq-block">
What is the best tomato to use for tomato soup?

Roma (plum) tomatoes are the best choice because they are meaty with fewer seeds and less water, which results in a thicker, more flavorful soup. For a more complex flavor, use a mix of Roma and vine-ripened tomatoes in your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup.

Why do you roast tomatoes for soup?

Roasting tomatoes caramelizes their natural sugars and concentrates their flavor, adding a rich, deep sweetness you cannot get from boiling them. This key step transforms simple ingredients into an incredibly delicious Roasted Tomato Basil Soup.

How do you thicken tomato basil soup?

For a naturally thick soup, use an immersion blender to puree the roasted vegetables until smooth. If your soup is still too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken, or add a small amount of tomato paste.

ank-math-faq-item"> Can you freeze tomato basil soup?

Yes, this soup freezes exceptionally well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

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