Name: Roasted Tomato Soup Basil: A Flavorful & Easy Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 2.5 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and halved; 1 large yellow onion, peeled and quartered; 6 cloves garlic, peeled; 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth); 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness); 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus extra for garnish; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; Optional toppings: croutons, grated Parmesan cheese, a swirl of cream

Roasted Tomato Soup Basil: Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of tomato soup on a chilly evening? I think not! This isn't just any tomato soup; it's a deeply flavorful, intensely satisfying experience that elevates a classic to something truly special. We're talking about a symphony of sweet, tangy, and herbaceous notes that will have you craving more with every spoonful.

Tomato soup, in its simplest form, has been a culinary staple for centuries, enjoyed across cultures and continents. Its origins can be traced back to the use of tomatoes in cooking, which gained popularity in Europe after their introduction from the Americas. Over time, regional variations emerged, each adding its unique twist to this beloved dish. The addition of basil, a fragrant herb native to the Mediterranean, brings a bright, peppery counterpoint to the richness of the tomatoes, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

What makes Roasted Tomato Soup Basil so irresistible? It's the roasting process! Roasting the tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness and adds a subtle smoky depth that canned tomatoes simply can't replicate. The basil, whether stirred in fresh at the end or roasted alongside the tomatoes, infuses the soup with its aromatic essence. People adore this dish because it's both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy to make. It's the perfect weeknight meal, a comforting lunch, or even an elegant starter for a dinner party. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use up a glut of summer tomatoes!

Ingredients:

2.5 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and halved
1 large yellow onion, peeled and quartered
6 cloves garlic, peeled
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus extra for garnish
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional toppings: croutons, grated Parmesan cheese, a swirl of cream

Roasting the Vegetables:

Okay, let's get started! The key to this amazing roasted tomato soup is, you guessed it, roasting the vegetables. This brings out their natural sweetness and creates a depth of flavor you just can't get any other way. Trust me, it's worth the extra step!

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you start. This ensures even roasting.
Prepare the tomatoes, onion, and garlic. Core and halve your tomatoes. Quarter the onion. Peel the garlic cloves. No need to mince or chop anything finely at this stage.
Toss with olive oil and seasonings. In a large bowl, toss the tomatoes, onion, and garlic with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper. Don't be shy with the salt – it really helps bring out the flavors.
Arrange on a baking sheet. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Make sure they're not overcrowded, or they'll steam instead of roast. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
Roast in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes. Roast until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized, and the onions are tender and starting to brown. The exact roasting time will depend on your oven, so keep an eye on them. You want them to be nice and soft, with some slightly charred edges.

Blending the Soup:

Now that our veggies are beautifully roasted, it's time to transform them into a creamy, dreamy soup! This is where the magic really happens.

Let the vegetables cool slightly. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the vegetables cool for about 10-15 minutes. This will prevent splattering when you blend them.
Transfer to a blender or food processor. Carefully transfer the roasted vegetables to a blender or food processor. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your blender.
Add vegetable broth. Add about 2 cups of the vegetable broth to the blender.
Blend until smooth. Blend until the soup is completely smooth and creamy. Be careful when blending hot liquids – start on low speed and gradually increase to high. If using a regular blender, you may need to vent the lid slightly to prevent pressure buildup.
Pour the blended soup into a large pot. Once blended, pour the soup into a large pot or Dutch oven.
Add remaining broth and simmer. Add the remaining 2 cups of vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat.
Simmer for 15-20 minutes. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Finishing Touches:

Almost there! Now for the final touches that will take this soup from good to absolutely amazing. This is where we add the creaminess and fresh basil that really make it sing.

Stir in heavy cream (optional). If you're using heavy cream, stir it into the soup. This will make the soup extra rich and decadent. If you prefer a lighter soup, you can skip this step.
Add fresh basil. Stir in the chopped fresh basil. The basil adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the roasted tomatoes perfectly.
Season to taste. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt and pepper to taste. You might also want to add a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of acidity.
Heat through. Heat the soup through, but don't let it boil.

Serving Suggestions:

Finally, the best part – serving and enjoying your delicious roasted tomato soup! Here are a few ideas to make it extra special:

Garnish with fresh basil. Garnish each bowl of soup with a few fresh basil leaves.
Add a swirl of cream. Drizzle a swirl of heavy cream or crème fraîche over the top of each bowl.
Top with croutons. Add some crispy croutons for texture. You can use store-bought croutons or make your own by toasting cubes of bread in olive oil and seasonings.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for a salty, savory flavor.
Serve with grilled cheese. Roasted tomato soup and grilled cheese are a classic combination!
Serve with crusty bread. Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Enjoy your homemade Roasted Tomato Soup with Basil! I hope you love it as much as I do. It's the perfect comfort food for a chilly day, and it's sure to impress your friends and family.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Roasted Tomato Soup with Basil is more than just a recipe; it's an experience. From the vibrant aroma that fills your kitchen as the tomatoes roast to the creamy, comforting warmth of each spoonful, this soup is a true celebration of simple, fresh ingredients. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone who appreciates good food. Why is it a must-try? Because it's incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and endlessly adaptable to your own preferences. The roasting process intensifies the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a depth of flavor you just can't achieve with canned tomatoes. The basil adds a bright, herbaceous note that perfectly complements the richness of the soup. It's a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. But the best part? It's so versatile! Looking for serving suggestions? A grilled cheese sandwich is the classic pairing, of course, but don't stop there! Try serving it with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping, a dollop of pesto for an extra burst of basil flavor, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a salty, savory touch. You could even swirl in a little cream or coconut milk for an even richer, more decadent soup. And speaking of variations, the possibilities are endless! Want to add a little heat? Throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes while the tomatoes are roasting. Craving a smoky flavor? Add a smoked paprika or a chipotle pepper to the mix. Feel like making it a heartier meal? Add some cooked pasta or beans to the soup. You can even blend in some roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor. For a vegan option, simply ensure your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly and skip the Parmesan cheese garnish. A swirl of cashew cream would be a delicious alternative! You can also experiment with different types of basil. Thai basil would add a unique, slightly spicy flavor, while lemon basil would bring a bright, citrusy note. I've made this Roasted Tomato Soup with Basil countless times, and it's always a hit. It's the perfect comfort food on a chilly day, a light and refreshing lunch on a warm day, or a sophisticated starter for a dinner party. It's a recipe that I know you'll turn to again and again. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of roasted tomatoes and fresh basil. I promise you won't be disappointed. I'm so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I'd love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and how you served it. Did you add any special ingredients? Did you pair it with a particular side dish? Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you'll love. Don't forget to snap a picture of your finished soup and share it on social media using [Your Hashtag]. I can't wait to see your creations! Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this Roasted Tomato Soup with Basil as much as I do.