Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Imagine the aroma of sun-ripened tomatoes and garlic roasting to perfection in your oven. This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a luxurious, restaurant-style Italian classic that blends simple ingredients into a silky, aromatic bowl of comfort, perfect for warming up any evening.

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There is nothing quite like the combination of roasted vegetables and fresh herbs. This recipe is designed to be approachable and rewarding, making it an ideal choice for both a cozy family dinner and an elegant gathering with friends.

Ingredients

• Roasted Vegetables
• 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) ripe tomatoes, halved
• 1 large yellow onion, quartered
• 6 cloves garlic, peeled
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Soup Base
• 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable broth (low sodium)
• 1/2 cup (15 g) fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for richness)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Garnish
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream or crème fraîche (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves
• Croutons or toasted bread (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

Arrange the halved tomatoes, onion quarters, and garlic cloves on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 3

Roast for 35–40 minutes, until the tomatoes are caramelized and the onions are tender.

Step 4

Transfer the roasted vegetables and any juices to a large pot. Add vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Step 5

Stir in the fresh basil leaves, butter, and sugar (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.

Step 6

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches in a countertop blender, then return to the pot.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For a silkier texture, strain the soup through a fine sieve.

Step 8

Serve hot, drizzled with cream and garnished with fresh basil leaves and croutons or toasted bread if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the smoothest possible finish, ensure you use a high-powered immersion blender and pass the final mixture through a fine sieve. Don't skip the optional teaspoon of sugar if your tomatoes are particularly acidic, as it helps round out the flavor beautifully.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make this soup vegan, simply omit the butter and cream or replace them with plant-based alternatives like olive oil and coconut milk. If you enjoy a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the simmering stage for a subtle kick.

Serviervorschläge

This soup pairs exceptionally well with a classic grilled cheese sandwich or rustic toasted sourdough. For a beverage pairing, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Italian white wine provides a refreshing contrast to the rich tomato profile.

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Grab a spoon and settle in with a hot bowl of this silky Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. It is the ultimate comfort meal, bringing the vibrant flavors of an Italian garden directly to your table.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. This soup actually develops deeper flavor when made ahead and refrigerated overnight. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to adjust consistency.

→ What type of tomatoes work best?

Roma or plum tomatoes are ideal for their lower water content and meaty texture, but any ripe, in-season tomatoes will work beautifully. Even cherry or grape tomatoes can be used—they roast quickly and add natural sweetness.

→ How do I achieve the smoothest texture?

Use a high-speed blender for the silkiest results, working in batches if needed. For restaurant-quality smoothness, pass the blended soup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining pulp or fibers.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, freeze without the cream garnish for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, adding fresh cream when serving if desired.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty garlic bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or homemade croutons are classic pairings. For a lighter option, serve alongside a simple green salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

→ How can I add more protein?

Stir in white beans like cannellini during the final simmer for a protein boost. Alternatively, serve with a side of protein-rich dishes or top with toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds for texture and plant protein.