Best Roasted Tomato Basil Soup – Easy Homemade Recipe

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup: A Velvety Comfort Classic

Nothing beats the rich aroma of roasted tomatoes and fresh basil simmering on your stovetop. This roasted tomato basil soup delivers deep, caramelized flavors with a velvety texture that comforts from the first spoonful. Meanwhile, roasting intensifies the natural sweetness of tomatoes while fresh basil adds a bright herbal note.

Perfect for chilly evenings or quick weeknight meals, this soup comes together with minimal effort. Additionally, it freezes beautifully for future meals. Whether you serve it with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich, this roasted tomato basil soup always satisfies.

Quick Recipe Highlights

• Flavor Profile: Sweet roasted tomatoes balance with peppery basil and savory garlic.
• Texture: Silky smooth with a luxurious mouthfeel from blended vegetables.
• Aroma: Intense roasted tomato scent with herbal basil undertones.
• Visual Appeal: Vibrant red-orange color with flecks of green basil.
• Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly with simple techniques.
• Special Equipment: Blender or immersion blender required for smooth texture.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

First, roasting tomatoes unlocks their natural sugars, creating a deeper flavor than raw tomatoes. The caramelized edges add subtle smokiness that elevates the entire dish. Furthermore, fresh basil brightens the richness with its distinctive peppery aroma.

Second, this recipe requires just 15 minutes of active prep time. While the tomatoes roast, you can prepare other meal components. Moreover, the soup keeps well for days, making it ideal for meal prep.

Nutritionally, tomatoes provide lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that becomes more bioavailable when cooked. Basil contributes vitamin K and anti-inflammatory compounds. Together, they create a healthful dish that tastes indulgent.

For entertaining, this roasted tomato basil soup impresses guests with restaurant-quality flavor. Serve it in small cups as an appetizer or in bowls with gourmet garnishes. Either way, it always earns compliments.

Finally, this recipe uses affordable pantry staples. Canned tomatoes work when fresh aren’t in season. Consequently, you can enjoy this soup year-round without breaking the grocery budget.

Essential Ingredients for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Ripe tomatoes form the foundation of this recipe. Look for plum or Roma varieties with firm flesh and deep color. Interestingly, imperfect “ugly” tomatoes often have the best flavor. Store them at room temperature until ready to use.

Fresh basil makes all the difference in this soup. The volatile oils that create its signature aroma diminish when dried. For best results, add basil just before blending to preserve its bright flavor. Alternatively, freeze leftover basil in olive oil for future use.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. Next, core and halve the tomatoes before arranging them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously. Roast until the edges darken and the flesh softens, about 30 minutes.

While the tomatoes roast, sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Then add the roasted tomatoes and vegetable broth. Simmer for 15 minutes to blend the flavors. Finally, blend until smooth and stir in chopped basil.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the baking sheet prevents proper caramelization
• Blending hot soup without ventilation can cause burns
• Using dried basil instead of fresh creates flat flavor
• Skipping the roasting step results in less depth

Frequently Asked Questions