Roasted Tomato Basil Soup – A Cozy and Flavorful Delight

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a timeless classic that combines rich, flavorful roasted tomatoes with the fresh, aromatic taste of basil. 🍅🌿 It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day, whether served as a comforting lunch or paired with a grilled cheese sandwich for a satisfying dinner. The natural sweetness from the tomatoes, combined with the depth of roasted flavor, makes this soup an irresistible treat.

This roasted tomato basil soup is easy to make, requires only a few simple ingredients, and can be prepared in no time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a crowd, this recipe is sure to be a hit! Let’s dive into how to make this soup, and why it’s the perfect addition to your recipe collection. 🍲🔥

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Why You’ll Love This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

✅ Rich & Flavorful – The sweetness of roasted tomatoes combined with fresh basil creates a deliciously deep flavor.

✅ Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with vitamins and antioxidants from the tomatoes and basil.

✅ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make it a breeze to prepare.

✅ Customizable – Add cream for a creamy texture, or spice it up with a kick of heat.

✅ Perfect Comfort Food – Ideal for cozy nights, paired with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.

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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need:

🍅 For the Roasted Tomatoes:

• 6 large tomatoes – Ripe and juicy tomatoes are key to a sweet, flavorful soup.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For roasting and adding richness.
• 1 teaspoon salt – To bring out the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – For a little kick.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Optional but recommended for extra flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds a herby depth to the roasted tomatoes.

🌿 For the Basil and Soup Base:

• 1 large onion – Chopped, for a savory base.
• 3 cups vegetable broth – Or chicken broth for added richness.
• 1 cup fresh basil – The star of the show, adding aromatic, fresh flavor.
• 2 tablespoons butter – For sautéing the onions and adding a creamy texture.
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar – Optional, but adds a tangy kick to the soup.
• 1 cup heavy cream – For a creamy version (optional).

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Substitutions & Variations:

• Use canned tomatoes if fresh tomatoes aren’t available, though fresh gives the best flavor.
• Vegetarian or vegan? Skip the butter and cream, and opt for olive oil and coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Add a little heat! Throw in some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño if you like spice.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

🔥 Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2️⃣ Prepare the tomatoes: Cut your tomatoes in half and place them on a baking sheet, cut side up.

3️⃣ Season the tomatoes: Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes and sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.

4️⃣ Roast: Place the tomatoes in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly caramelized. This roasting process brings out the sweetness and depth of the tomatoes. 🍅

5️⃣ Cool down: Once roasted, remove the tomatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.

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🍲 Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

1️⃣ Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re soft and translucent. 🧅

2️⃣ Add garlic (optional): If you like, you can add a minced garlic clove for extra flavor. Sauté for another minute.

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🍅 Step 3: Blend the Soup Base

1️⃣ Add the roasted tomatoes: Once the tomatoes have cooled slightly, scoop them out of their skins (they should come off easily) and add them to the pot with the sautéed onions.

2️⃣ Add the broth: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and stir to combine.

3️⃣ Simmer: Let the soup simmer over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. 🕒

4️⃣ Blend the soup: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until creamy.

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🌿 Step 4: Add the Basil and Finish the Soup

1️⃣ Add the fresh basil leaves: Tear the basil leaves and stir them into the soup. Let the basil cook in the hot soup for 5 minutes to release its flavor. 🌱

2️⃣ Optional creamy version: For a creamy soup, stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

3️⃣ Season to taste: Taste your soup and add additional salt, pepper, or balsamic vinegar as needed for more depth and flavor.

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🥣 Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1️⃣ Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of cream, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor. 🧀

2️⃣ Pair with your favorite sides: This soup is delicious served with a slice of crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh salad.

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Storage & Reheating

🧊 Storing Leftovers:

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. 🍲
• For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

🔥 Reheating Instructions:

• On the stovetop: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• In the microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Tip for creamy soups: If freezing the soup, the texture may change slightly after reheating. You can add a bit more cream or broth to restore the smooth consistency.

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Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is versatile and pairs well with many dishes. Here are some ideas to enjoy it:

🍞 With Grilled Cheese: A classic pairing! The creamy soup and cheesy, buttery sandwich are a match made in heaven.

🥖 Crusty Bread: Dip a warm, crusty baguette or sourdough bread into the soup for a delightful experience.

🍝 With Pasta: Add some cooked pasta like orzo or small shells for a heartier meal.

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FAQs

1️⃣ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the soup up to a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

2️⃣ Can I make this soup without roasting the tomatoes?

While roasting the tomatoes adds depth and sweetness, you can make the soup with raw tomatoes if you prefer. Just sauté the tomatoes with the onions and garlic and proceed with the rest of the recipe.

3️⃣ How do I make this soup vegan?

Simply swap the butter for olive oil and use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream for a creamy vegan version.

4️⃣ Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

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Conclusion – The Ultimate Comfort Soup

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is the ultimate comfort food, bursting with the natural sweetness of tomatoes and the fresh aroma of basil. 🍅🌿 It’s creamy, hearty, and full of flavor, making it a perfect dish for cozy nights, chilly weather, or any time you crave a bowl of comforting soup.

With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy a delicious homemade soup that will have everyone coming back for seconds! 😍 Try it today and experience the cozy goodness of roasted tomato basil soup! 🍲🔥