Roasted tomato basil soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that warms the soul. This classic recipe combines the rich taste of ripe tomatoes with aromatic basil for a delightful experience. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a starter for any meal, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying. The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes while infusing them with deep flavors that are simply irresistible. Whether you serve it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or enjoy it on its own, this roasted tomato basil soup is sure to become a favorite in your home. Plus, it’s easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. In this article, you will learn why this recipe is worth adding to your repertoire and how to create it step by step.
Why You’ll Love This roasted tomato basil soup
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for roasted tomato basil soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ripe Tomatoes: Use about 2 pounds of fresh ripe tomatoes for the best flavor; choose vine-ripened varieties for sweetness.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: One cup of fresh basil adds vibrant flavor; look for bright green leaves without blemishes.
- Onion: One medium onion provides depth; yellow onions work best due to their natural sweetness when cooked.
- Garlic Cloves: Four to five cloves enhance the aromatic profile; use fresh garlic for optimal flavor.
- Olive Oil: About three tablespoons help in roasting; use extra virgin olive oil for richer taste.
- Vegetable Broth: Four cups of vegetable broth create a savory base; low-sodium options allow better control over salt levels.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make roasted tomato basil soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps caramelize the tomatoes beautifully during roasting.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes
Wash and core the ripe tomatoes before cutting them in half. Place them cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Peel and roughly chop onion and garlic. Scatter them around the tomatoes on the baking sheet. Drizzle everything generously with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Roast Ingredients
Roast in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes until tomatoes are soft and slightly charred. The roasting process intensifies their flavors.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Transfer the roasted mixture into a blender or use an immersion blender directly in the pot along with fresh basil leaves and vegetable broth.
Step 6: Heat and Serve
Pour blended soup into a pot over medium heat. Simmer gently for about ten minutes before serving warm. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Transfer to bowls and garnish with extra basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Select Quality Ingredients: Choose ripe tomatoes that are firm yet slightly soft; they should have a strong aroma.
- Basil Freshness: Use fresh basil instead of dried for maximum flavor impact; add it at blending rather than cooking.
- Smooth Texture: For an ultra-smooth consistency, blend longer until creamy; strain through a sieve if desired.
How to Serve roasted tomato basil soup
This roasted tomato basil soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the roasted tomato basil soup components in advance. Roast the tomatoes and garlic ahead of time, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Blend the ingredients when ready to serve.
- Storing: To store leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. The soup will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about four days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions using freezer-safe containers.
- Reheating: Reheat your soup on the stove over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer, about 10 minutes. If frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Stir occasionally to maintain an even temperature without burning.
Suggestions for roasted tomato basil soup
Avoid Overcooking the Tomatoes
Overcooking the tomatoes can lead to a loss of flavor and texture in your roasted tomato basil soup. When you roast tomatoes, it’s essential to find the right balance between caramelization and maintaining their juiciness. Aim for a roasting time of about 25-30 minutes at 400°F (200°C). This duration allows the natural sugars in the tomatoes to develop while keeping them from becoming mushy. Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even roasting. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t blacken too much, which can impart an unpleasant bitterness to your soup.
Using Dried Basil Instead of Fresh
While dried basil has its uses, fresh basil is key for an authentic roasted tomato basil soup. Fresh basil brings a vibrant flavor that dried herbs simply can’t replicate. When you blend fresh basil into your soup, it adds an aromatic quality and brightens the overall dish. If you only have dried basil on hand, use it sparingly; about one-third of the amount of fresh basil you would typically use. To maximize flavor, consider adding dried basil at the beginning of cooking and fresh basil at the end to preserve its aromatic properties.
Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments
One common mistake when making roasted tomato basil soup is neglecting to adjust seasonings after blending. The roasting process intensifies flavors, so it’s crucial to taste your soup before serving. You may find that it requires additional salt or pepper to enhance its overall taste. Additionally, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar if the acidity from the tomatoes is too strong. Season gradually; this way, you can achieve the perfect balance without overpowering the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Skipping Garnishes
Garnishes are not just for aesthetics; they add depth and contrast to your roasted tomato basil soup. Skipping this step can leave your dish feeling flat. Consider topping your soup with a drizzle of olive oil, a dollop of crème fraîche or yogurt, and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves before serving. These additions provide creaminess and freshness while enhancing visual appeal. A sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper or grated Parmesan cheese can also elevate your dish, making it restaurant-quality right at home.
FAQs
What makes roasted tomato basil soup special?
Roasted tomato basil soup stands out due to its rich flavor profile created through roasting tomatoes until they become caramelized and sweet. This cooking method intensifies their natural sweetness while adding depth through slightly charred edges. Fresh basil contributes an aromatic freshness that complements the richness of roasted tomatoes perfectly. The combination creates a warm and comforting dish that evokes feelings of nostalgia while being incredibly satisfying on chilly days.
Can I freeze roasted tomato basil soup?
Yes, freezing roasted tomato basil soup is an excellent option for meal prep! After cooking and blending your soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Ensure that you leave some space at the top since liquids expand when frozen. Your soup can last up to three months in the freezer without losing its flavor or texture significantly. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
How can I make my roasted tomato basil soup creamier?
To achieve a creamier texture in your roasted tomato basil soup, consider adding heavy cream or coconut milk during blending. Start with half a cup and adjust according to your preference for creaminess. For a lighter alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream stirred in just before serving for added richness without overwhelming flavors. Another option is incorporating cooked potatoes or cashews into the mix; these ingredients add creaminess while enhancing overall nutrition.
What should I serve with roasted tomato basil soup?
Roasted tomato basil soup pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its flavors beautifully. Grilled cheese sandwiches are classic companions; their gooey texture contrasts nicely with the smoothness of the soup. You could also serve crusty bread or artisan rolls for dipping, which will soak up every delicious drop! For a lighter option, consider pairing it with a simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette for freshness alongside this hearty dish.
Conclusion for roasted tomato basil soup
In summary, mastering roasted tomato basil soup involves avoiding common pitfalls such as overcooking tomatoes and neglecting seasoning adjustments. Using fresh ingredients like aromatic herbs enhances your dish’s flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives. Don’t forget about garnishes—they add both beauty and complexity! This comforting recipe is versatile enough for meal prepping as well as entertaining guests at dinner parties or casual gatherings alike. With these tips in mind, you’ll create a rich and flavorful bowl that warms hearts on any occasion!

Easy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
- Author: Cecilia
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Roasted tomato basil soup is a warm, comforting dish that perfectly blends the sweetness of ripe, roasted tomatoes with the aromatic freshness of basil. This simple yet flavorful recipe is ideal for cozy nights or as a delightful starter at gatherings. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a nourishing bowl of soup that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. The roasting process enhances the natural sugars in the tomatoes, resulting in a rich flavor profile that pairs beautifully with fresh basil. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 medium onion
- 4–5 garlic cloves
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and core the tomatoes, then cut them in half and place them cut side up on a lined baking sheet.
- Chop the onion and garlic, scatter around the tomatoes, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast for 30-35 minutes until soft and slightly charred.
- Allow to cool slightly before blending with fresh basil leaves and vegetable broth until smooth.
- Heat the blended soup over medium heat for about 10 minutes before serving warm, garnished with additional basil or olive oil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added creaminess, blend in heavy cream or coconut milk after pureeing. To enhance flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving. Use roasted garlic for an even richer taste.