Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil

If you’re looking for a cozy bowl of comfort food that warms the soul, then this Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil is just what you need! There’s something magical about the combination of roasted tomatoes and fragrant basil that makes this homemade soup a comforting choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s simple enough to whip up on a chilly evening yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, vibrant flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious soup ready to savor.
• Delicious Flavor: The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, while fresh basil adds an aromatic touch.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love dipping grilled cheese sandwiches into this delightful soup!
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or served as an appetizer at your next gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil requires simple, wholesome components that you can easily find in your kitchen or local market. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup

• 1kg / 2.2lb Fresh Tomatoes (see notes)
• 240ml / 1 cup Chicken Stock (or vegetable stock)
• 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

Optional Side

• 4x Grilled Cheese Sandwiches (optional – see notes)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Add Some Spice: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of coconut cream or non-dairy milk for a creamy texture.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or parsley if basil isn’t your favorite.
• Veggie Boost: Add in some chopped carrots or bell peppers while sautéing for extra 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 cut-side up on a tray. Season generously with salt and pepper before flipping them over. Scatter your garlic cloves and thyme around, drizzle everything with olive oil, and roast them for about 25-30 minutes until they are wilted and lightly charred. This step enhances their flavor beautifully!

Step 2: Prepare 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. Then reduce the heat to low and let it caramelize slowly. This gentle cooking method brings out their natural sweetness—trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your tomatoes are roasted, pull them from the oven and pop the garlic out of its skin. Remove thyme leaves from the tray and pour everything—including those lovely juices—into your pot with the onions. Add chicken stock and fresh basil, then cover and let it simmer for about 30 minutes (longer if you’d like deeper flavors).

Step 4: Blend It Up!

After simmering, use an immersion blender to blitz everything until smooth. If you prefer a thinner soup, gradually mix in more stock until you reach your desired consistency. Taste test for seasoning—add salt and pepper as needed!

Step 5: Serve It Up

For an extra treat, make grilled cheese sandwiches with burrata and pesto—just butter the outsides and fry until golden brown! Serve alongside your delicious Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil for a meal that’s sure to warm your heart.

Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful soup!

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

Creating the perfect Roasted Tomato Soup is all about enhancing the natural flavors of your ingredients. Here are some handy tips to elevate your soup-making game!

• Choose ripe tomatoes: Selecting juicy, ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor of your soup significantly. Look for tomatoes that are deep in color and have a slight give when gently squeezed.
• Don’t skip the roasting: Roasting the tomatoes and garlic brings out their sweetness and adds a lovely depth of flavor to your soup. The caramelization that occurs during roasting is essential for that rich taste.
• Adjust the stock: Feel free to experiment with different types of stock! Using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock can make this dish vegan-friendly, while homemade stock will add an even more robust flavor.
• Add seasoning gradually: As you cook, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. This allows you to customize the flavor profile, ensuring your soup is just right for your palate.
• Simmer longer for depth: If time allows, let your soup simmer longer than 30 minutes. This additional cooking time helps meld all those beautiful flavors together, resulting in a richer, more complex soup.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil

Serving your Roasted Tomato Soup in style can turn a simple meal into something special. Here are some ideas to help you present this delightful dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A few whole basil leaves on top of each bowl not only add color but also enhance the fresh basil flavor.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and a touch of elegance, enticing both the eyes and the palate.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing! Make these sandwiches with your favorite cheese alternatives for a gooey complement to the warm soup.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread or baguette for dipping. The texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Salad: A light green salad dressed with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of the soup, making for a complete meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables tossed with olive oil and herbs make a colorful and nutritious side that perfectly matches the tomato theme.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil. 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! It keeps well in the fridge and can easily be frozen for future cravings. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Pour into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some room for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For a microwave, heat in short increments, stirring in between until warm.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh for this Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil?

Yes, you can substitute canned tomatoes! Use about 1kg of canned whole tomatoes (preferably San Marzano) instead of fresh. Just skip the roasting step and add them directly to the pot after sautéing the onions.

How long does Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil last in the fridge?

When stored properly, your roasted tomato soup can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s kept in an airtight container!

Can I add other vegetables to my Roasted Tomato Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition. Just roast them alongside your tomatoes!

Is this Roasted Tomato Soup suitable for vegan diets?

Yes! Simply substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock and use a plant-based butter alternative.

What can I serve with my Roasted Tomato Soup?

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic pairing! You can also serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a light meal.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil is truly special—it’s comforting, easy to prepare, and full of vibrant flavors that will warm your heart. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste and share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!