Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

The best Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful dish that bursts with flavor. Using fresh tomatoes and aromatic herbs, this soup is perfect for cozy dinners or as a starter for gatherings. Its creamy texture and rich taste make it a standout choice for any occasion, ensuring you’ll never reach for the canned versions again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of Flavor: The roasting process intensifies the sweetness of tomatoes and garlic, delivering a rich taste.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Additions: Customize your soup with optional add-ins like coconut milk or cheese to suit everyone’s preferences.
• Healthy Option: Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, this soup is a nutritious choice for lunch or dinner.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup stores well, making it convenient to prepare in advance or save for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best homemade roasted tomato basil soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking experience and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large pot
• Food processor or blender
• Immersion blender (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a large surface area for roasting tomatoes evenly, enhancing their flavor.
• Large pot: Ideal for sautéing onions and combining ingredients without spilling.
• Food processor or blender: Ensures smooth blending of roasted ingredients, creating a creamy soup texture.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Tomatoes

• 3 pounds roma or plum tomatoes, cut in half
• 8 cloves garlic, peeled
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Freshly ground salt and pepper

For the Caramelized Onions

• ½ tablespoon olive oil
• 2 yellow onions, thinly sliced

Additions to the Soup

• ½ cup packed basil leaves
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1-2 cups water or vegetarian broth, depending on how thick you want the soup
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

• Light/Regular coconut milk, for a creamy vegan soup
• Whole dairy milk/heavy cream, for a creamy texture
• Parmesan cheese, for a tangy flavor-enhancing touch
• A tablespoon or two of butter, for richer flavor

How to Make Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place halved tomatoes and garlic cloves on the baking sheet. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Generously season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 40-45 minutes until tender.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

While the tomatoes are roasting, heat ½ tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions, stirring to coat them in oil. Cook while stirring occasionally. Check every 5-10 minutes until they are fully caramelized and golden brown; this usually takes around 20 minutes.

Step 3: Blend Roasted Ingredients

Once your tomatoes and garlic are done roasting, allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. Transfer them to a food processor or high-powered blender and blend until smooth. Next, add basil leaves and caramelized onions; blend again until well combined. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender directly in your pot.

Step 4: Combine & Simmer

Return the blended mixture back to the pot over medium-low heat. Add dried oregano along with water or vegetarian broth based on your desired soup thickness. Season with salt and pepper as needed. If using any optional add-ins like coconut milk or cheese, stir them in now. Allow your homemade roasted tomato basil soup to simmer for about 10 minutes before serving.

This homemade roasted tomato basil soup serves four people perfectly alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread! Enjoy this comforting dish that highlights fresh flavors!

How to Serve Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Homemade roasted tomato basil soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner, there are many options to enhance your experience.

Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• A warm, melty grilled cheese pairs perfectly with the soup, creating a comforting meal.

Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of rustic bread or baguette for dipping into the soup. This adds texture and substance to your meal.

Fresh Basil Garnish

• Top your soup with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch. It enhances the flavor and adds a pop of color.

Parmesan Cheese

• Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top for an added layer of flavor. It melts slightly into the warm soup for a rich taste.

Olive Oil Drizzle

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the soup just before serving elevates the flavor profile and adds a gourmet touch.

How to Perfect Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

To achieve the best results with your homemade roasted tomato basil soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use ripe tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes will provide maximum sweetness and flavor, ensuring a deliciously rich soup.
• Don’t rush caramelizing onions: Taking your time to caramelize onions will develop their natural sweetness, adding depth to your soup.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed to suit your palate.
• Experiment with add-ins: Try different creamy additions like coconut milk or heavy cream for varied textures and flavors.
• Simmer after blending: Allowing the blended soup to simmer helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Pairing side dishes with your homemade roasted tomato basil soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad complements the flavors of the soup while adding crunch and freshness.

2. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a bright salad that mirrors the soup’s ingredients nicely.

3. Stuffed Peppers
   Hearty stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide an additional filling component to your meal.

4. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich tomato basil soup and is always a crowd-pleaser.

5. Roasted Vegetables
   Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition alongside your comforting bowl of soup.

6. Cheesy Quesadillas
   Melty cheese quesadillas are easy to make and pair well for those looking for something savory on the side.

7. Simple Green Salad
   A light green salad offers refreshing contrast and balances out the richness of the soup.

8. Savory Scones
   Cheddar or herb scones can add an interesting twist, providing a delightful accompaniment to soak up every drop of tomato goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using unripe tomatoes: Always choose ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. Unripe tomatoes can lead to a bland soup.
• Overcooking garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, becoming bitter. Roast it alongside the tomatoes, but watch it closely.
• Neglecting to season: Don’t forget to season your soup during cooking. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed for balanced flavor.
• Skipping caramelization: Caramelizing onions adds depth. Take the time to cook them until they’re golden brown for maximum sweetness.
• Not blending enough: Ensure your soup is smooth by blending thoroughly. Use an immersion blender or food processor until you reach your desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• The soup will keep fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

• Pour into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in a baking dish and heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup.

Can I use different types of tomatoes?

Yes! While roma or plum tomatoes are ideal, you can use any ripe tomato variety for delicious results.

How do I make my soup thicker?

To thicken your soup, reduce the amount of broth or add more roasted tomatoes. You can also blend longer for a creamier texture.

What herbs can I add besides basil?

Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even parsley for added flavor dimensions in your homemade soup.

How do I store leftover Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various additions like coconut milk or cheese, making it perfect for any palate. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness!