Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a rich and flavorful comfort food that combines roasted Roma tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy ingredients for the ultimate savory soup. The roasted tomatoes bring out a natural sweetness and depth of flavor, while the addition of fresh garlic, onions, and herbs creates a beautifully balanced, aromatic base. Finished with a touch of heavy cream, this tomato basil soup is the perfect cozy dish for colder months or a delicious, healthy meal year-round. This easy homemade recipe will become a family favorite for its smooth texture, rich taste, and satisfying, wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 190°F (90°C).
2. Slice the Roma tomatoes in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet lined with foil.
3. Drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil, season with black pepper and a pinch of salt, then roast in the oven for about 1 hour until soft and caramelized.
4. While the tomatoes roast, heat 3 tbsp of olive oil (or 2 tbsp of unsalted butter) in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for a few minutes until softened.
5. Add the minced garlic, fresh thyme, and stir to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
6. Stir in the 28 oz can of San Marzano tomatoes, followed by 1 tbsp of sugar. Add the chopped fresh basil, mix well, and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes.
7. Once the Roma tomatoes are roasted, add them to the pan and let everything simmer together for an additional 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
8. Using an immersion blender or regular blender, blend the soup until smooth.
9. Stir in 2/3 cups of heavy cream for a rich, creamy texture. Adjust seasoning if needed, and your delicious roasted tomato basil soup is ready to serve!

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Tips

• Roast the tomatoes longer for deeper flavor: For an even richer taste, you can roast the Roma tomatoes for a bit longer. The longer they roast, the more concentrated the flavors will be.
• Use a good quality canned tomato: San Marzano tomatoes are recommended for their sweet, less acidic flavor, but any high-quality canned tomato can work.
• Blending: For an extra smooth texture, you can pass the blended soup through a fine sieve to remove any seeds or skin.

Variations and Substitutions

• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
• Herb Variations: Try using fresh oregano or rosemary in place of thyme for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic and onions to add a spicy element to the soup.

FAQs

Can I use other tomatoes?
Yes, while Roma tomatoes are ideal for roasting, you can substitute with other types of tomatoes, such as vine-ripened tomatoes, though the roasting time may vary.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I use store-bought chicken stock?
Yes, store-bought chicken stock works fine, but if you want to enhance the soup’s flavor, homemade stock is always a great option.

Serving Suggestions

• With Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• Grilled Cheese: Pair this creamy soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting and filling meal.
• Topped with Croutons: For a bit of crunch, top your soup with homemade or store-bought croutons.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a perfect balance of sweetness from the roasted tomatoes, savory richness from the chicken stock, and fresh herbaceous notes from the basil. The creaminess from the heavy cream adds a luxurious finish to every bite. It’s comforting, easy to make, and the ideal dish for cozy days or family dinners. With its rich flavors and velvety texture, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire!