Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish to warm your soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil is not just a recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl. I love making this soup on chilly evenings or when I want a simple yet delicious meal that everyone will adore. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, this homemade soup is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together effortlessly, even on your busiest days. Just roast, sauté, and blend!
• Flavorful: The roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, making every spoonful rich and delicious.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will fall in love with this classic tomato soup. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or an appetizer—it fits any occasion perfectly.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare this soup ahead of time and reheat it whenever you need a quick meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that make this Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil truly special. No need for fancy items here—just good quality produce will do!

For the Soup

• 1kg / 2.2lb Fresh Tomatoes (see notes)
• 240ml / 1 cup Chicken Stock (or vegetable stock if preferred)
• 3-4 cloves of Garlic (skin on)
• 1 medium White Onion (diced)
• 1 tbsp Butter
• 1 tbsp Tomato Puree (Tomato Paste in US)
• 1/2 tbsp Balsamic vinegar
• 1 large handful Fresh Basil Leaves
• Few sprigs of Fresh Thyme
• Salt & Black Pepper to taste
• Olive Oil as needed

For Serving (Optional)

• 4x Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to swap out or add ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add some heat: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
• Creamy twist: Stir in a splash of coconut cream or cashew cream to make it extra rich and creamy.
• Herb infusion: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or parsley for unique flavor profiles.
• Veggie boost: Add chopped bell peppers or carrots before blending for added nutrition.

How to Make Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 200C/390F. Slice your fresh tomatoes in half and place them flesh side up on a baking tray. Generously season them with salt and pepper—this step is crucial for enhancing their natural flavor! Flip them over, then add your garlic cloves and thyme sprigs. Drizzle everything with olive oil before roasting for about 25-30 minutes until they’re wilted and lightly charred. This roasting process caramelizes the sugars in the tomatoes, giving your soup an incredible depth of flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

While your tomatoes are roasting, melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and fry until it starts to catch color—this adds amazing sweetness to your soup! Lower the heat and let those onions gently caramelize. Once they’re beautifully golden, stir in the tomato puree and let it cook for another minute before deglazing with balsamic vinegar. The vinegar adds a lovely tang that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

After removing the roasted garlic from its skin and taking out the thyme from your tray, pour everything into the pot with the onions—including those tasty juices from the roasting tray! Add your chosen stock and fresh basil leaves. Let this mixture simmer with the lid on for about 30 minutes—that patience will pay off as all those flavors meld beautifully together.

Step 4: Blend It Up!

Once simmering time is up, grab your hand blender (or transfer to a regular blender if you don’t have one) and blitz until smooth. If you prefer a thinner consistency, gradually add more stock until you reach your desired texture. Taste your soup for seasoning—it should be perfectly balanced. If you’d like it thicker, simply let it simmer without the lid until it’s just right.

Now you’ve got yourself a delightful bowl of Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil ready to serve! Enjoy with optional grilled cheese sandwiches for that ultimate comfort meal experience!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil

Making this Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your soup game to a whole new level!

• Choose Ripe Tomatoes: Select the ripest tomatoes you can find for maximum flavor. The sweetness of fresh, juicy tomatoes is what makes this soup so special.
• Don’t Skip the Garlic: Roasting garlic adds a deep, rich flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully. Plus, it makes the soup extra aromatic!
• Simmer Longer for Depth: If you have time, let the soup simmer longer than 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together, creating a more complex and satisfying taste.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. A pinch of salt or a dash of pepper can make all the difference in bringing out the natural flavors.
• Experiment with Herbs: While basil is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to add other fresh herbs like oregano or parsley for a unique twist that will surprise your taste buds.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil

This soup not only tastes incredible but also looks stunning when served. Here are some ideas to present your dish beautifully:

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A few whole leaves sprinkled on top not only enhance the visual appeal but also add an extra burst of basil flavor.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of good quality olive oil on top gives a lovely sheen and richness to each bowl.
• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons add crunch and texture that contrast nicely with the smoothness of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: An unbeatable classic! The gooey cheese paired with crispy bread complements the soup perfectly, making it a comforting meal.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered with garlic butter is perfect for dipping into your soup. It’s indulgent and delicious!
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add another layer of depth and nutrition to your meal while keeping everything plant-based.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your homemade Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil in style! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Always label your container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight or use a microwave on defrost setting.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
• If too thick after reheating, add a splash of stock or water to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I use canned tomatoes for Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil?

Yes, while fresh tomatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can substitute them with canned tomatoes in a pinch. Choose whole peeled or diced tomatoes for great flavor.

How can I enhance the flavor of Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil?

To enhance the soup’s flavor, consider adding roasted red peppers or a dash of smoked paprika. Fresh herbs like oregano or dill can also bring a lovely depth.

Can I add cream to my Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil?

Absolutely! For a richer texture, stir in a splash of cream just before serving. Coconut cream is a great non-dairy option if you prefer to keep it plant-based.

What should I serve with my Roasted Tomato Soup?

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic pairing! You could also serve it with crusty bread or a refreshing salad for a heartier meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil! It’s such a comforting dish that warms both body and soul. Whether you’re enjoying it as an appetizer or main course, it’s sure to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to get creative and add your own twist—after all, cooking is all about making it your own. Happy cooking!