Homemade roasted tomato basil soup is a classic that shines alone but truly dazzles alongside the right accompaniments. Pair it with a crusty loaf of French bread or garlic bread to soak up the rich flavors.
A grilled cheese sandwich takes things up a notch, offering melty perfection that complements the soup’s warmth. For a refreshing touch, consider a simple garden salad with vinaigrette or a Caprese salad featuring fresh mozzarella and basil.
The brightness of these pairings balances the soup’s heartiness while enhancing your dining experience significantly.
Nostalgia is a powerful flavor enhancer. Just the thought of homemade roasted tomato basil soup brings me back to summer afternoons spent at my grandmother’s kitchen table.
Sun-drenched tomatoes, fresh basil, and the aroma of garlic roasting in olive oil filled the air, creating a symphony of scents that tantalized the senses. Today, I’m excited to share with you the ins and outs of crafting this timeless soup in your own home—no secret family recipe needed.
Along the way, I’ll share important elements that contribute to its taste and texture, practical insights to optimize your cooking process, and ways to customize the soup to align with your pantry’s contents.
This is not just a recipe; it’s a culinary journey. So, let’s get started!
What is Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
Homemade roasted tomato basil soup is a delightful blend of oven-roasted tomatoes, fresh basil, and aromatic garlic, all simmered to create a smooth, comforting dish.
By roasting the tomatoes, you amplify their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Combined with the fragrance of fresh basil, garlic, and a splash of olive oil, each spoonful is like a warm hug in a bowl.
It’s simple yet sophisticated, making it a perfect dish for both weeknight dinners and leisurely weekend gatherings. The texture can be adjusted based on your preference—smooth and creamy or chunky with bits of caramelized tomato.
What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine the first taste—warm, rich tomato goodness melded with herbaceous bursts from the basil. The initial sweetness of the tomatoes transforms into a savory experience as the garlic mingles in.
You might detect a pinch of heat from the crushed red pepper, while the olive oil adds a lush finish. The balance of flavors is what elevates this soup from ordinary to extraordinary.
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Why This Recipe Works
This recipe isn’t just about throwing ingredients into a pot. Here are the reasons that truly set it apart:
1. Flavor Development through Roasting
Roasting tomatoes intensifies their flavor. High heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the tomatoes, releasing flavors you wouldn’t achieve by just boiling them. Additionally, roasting garlic mellows its sharpness, creating a buttery richness.
2. Fresh Herb Aroma
Basil brings a refreshing dimension. Its vibrant notes are a perfect match for the soup’s acidity, cutting through the richness and balancing the dish beautifully. Using fresh basil instead of dried makes a significant difference.
3. Quick Preparation
Despite the layered flavors, this soup is incredibly straightforward to make. With a little chopping and some patience while roasting, you can create something that tastes as though it simmered for hours.
4. Health Benefits
With tomatoes as the star ingredient, you gain all sorts of nutritional bonuses. Tomatoes are packed with vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants that can help promote heart health. Add in basil and garlic, and you’re embracing a dish that’s not just delicious but health-conscious too.
Ingredients For Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Before we begin, ensure your kitchen is stocked with the following ingredients:
- 6 whole garlic cloves, unpeeled
- 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 3 pounds fresh tomatoes, any type, halved
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon coarse kosher salt
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
- 5 cups low-sodium vegetable stock or chicken stock
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
Step by Step Instructions
Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delicious creation.
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes and Garlic
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat is crucial for roasting. Next, take your tomatoes, halve them, and place them cut-side-up on a baking sheet. Don’t forget to add your unpeeled garlic cloves to the tray, too.
The more the merrier! Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Roasting these ingredients will unlock their full potential.
Step 2: Roast in the Oven
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and roast for about 30-40 minutes. You’re looking for slightly caramelized edges on the tomatoes and a toasty aroma filling your kitchen. Your patience will pay off here.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
While the tomatoes are roasting, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. This step builds a flavor base for your soup.
When you think the onions are just right, add the roasted garlic (you’ll want to squeeze the cloves out of their skins) and cheerfully stir for another minute or two.
Step 4: Combine Roasted Ingredients
When the tomatoes come out, toss them into the pot with the sautéed onions. Pour in the vegetable stock (or chicken stock if you prefer) and stir in crushed red pepper flakes. Give everything a mix, and bring it to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Blend It Up!
Once boiling, lower the heat and allow it to simmer for approximately 10 minutes. This extra time allows flavors to mingle.
After that, it’s blending time! Use an immersion blender (or carefully transfer to a regular blender) to purée the soup until smooth. Remember, blending hot liquids can be tricky—take it slow.
Step 6: Add Fresh Basil
After blending, stir in the roughly chopped fresh basil. Allow it to infuse its flavor for a few minutes. This vibrant herb adds a fresh finish and raises the taste to a new level.
Notes
Here are some valuable tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and herbs will drastically improve the flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Roasting: Roasting is key to achieving the depth of flavor this soup is known for.
- Adjust Seasonings: Everyone’s palate is different. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Make it Creamy: For a richer soup, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche before serving.
- Batch Cooking: This soup freezes wonderfully. Make a large batch and freeze portions for quick future meals.
Nutrition Information
Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe Nutrition Facts
How To Store The Leftovers?
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days or you can freeze it for up to three months. If you’re freezing, be sure to leave some room in the containers for expansion.
Sides For Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Enhance your meal experience with these complementary sides:
1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A classic pairing, a gooey grilled cheese makes each spoonful of soup more exciting. Choose sharp cheddar or a melty Gruyère for unforgettable bites.
2. Caprese Salad
Slicing fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, drizzling with balsamic reduction creates a light, refreshing counterpoint to the warmth of the soup.
3. Garlic Bread
Crusty yet tender, garlic bread pairs beautifully. Spread a flavorful garlic butter on your favorite loaf, toast it up, and serve on the side.
4. Simple Garden Salad
Throw together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed in olive oil and lemon juice. The crunchiness adds a delightful contrast to the soup’s silky texture.
What Are Some Alternative Choices to the Ingredients?
Sometimes, flexibility is key in the kitchen. Here are some alternatives to consider:
1. Fresh Tomatoes
If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, canned tomatoes can step in just fine. Opt for whole peeled or diced tomatoes—just remember to reduce the overall cooking time since they’re pre-cooked.
2. Vegetable Stock
Chicken stock is a great substitute for those not vegetarian. For a gluten-free option, check that your stock is appropriately labeled.
3. Olive Oil
If you’re out of olive oil, feel free to use vegetable or canola oil. Each will impart its own unique flavor profile.
4. Fresh Basil
No fresh basil? No worries! Dried basil can work in a pinch, just remember to use less (about 1 teaspoon) as dried herbs have more concentrated flavors.
Equipment
- Oven
Ingredients
- 6 whole garlic cloves unpeeled
- 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 3 pounds fresh tomatoes any type, halved
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil divided
- 1 tablespoon coarse kosher salt
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
- 5 cups low-sodium vegetable stock or chicken stock
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes and Garlic
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat is crucial for roasting. Next, take your tomatoes, halve them, and place them cut-side-up on a baking sheet. Don’t forget to add your unpeeled garlic cloves to the tray, too.
- The more the merrier! Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Roasting these ingredients will unlock their full potential.
Step 2: Roast in the Oven
- Slide the baking sheet into the oven and roast for about 30-40 minutes. You’re looking for slightly caramelized edges on the tomatoes and a toasty aroma filling your kitchen. Your patience will pay off here.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
- While the tomatoes are roasting, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. This step builds a flavor base for your soup.
- When you think the onions are just right, add the roasted garlic (you’ll want to squeeze the cloves out of their skins) and cheerfully stir for another minute or two.
Step 4: Combine Roasted Ingredients
- When the tomatoes come out, toss them into the pot with the sautéed onions. Pour in the vegetable stock (or chicken stock if you prefer) and stir in crushed red pepper flakes. Give everything a mix, and bring it to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Blend It Up!
- Once boiling, lower the heat and allow it to simmer for approximately 10 minutes. This extra time allows flavors to mingle.
- After that, it’s blending time! Use an immersion blender (or carefully transfer to a regular blender) to purée the soup until smooth. Remember, blending hot liquids can be tricky—take it slow.
Step 6: Add Fresh Basil
- After blending, stir in the roughly chopped fresh basil. Allow it to infuse its flavor for a few minutes. This vibrant herb adds a fresh finish and raises the taste to a new level.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and herbs will drastically improve the flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Roasting: Roasting is key to achieving the depth of flavor this soup is known for.
- Adjust Seasonings: Everyone’s palate is different. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Make it Creamy: For a richer soup, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche before serving.
- Batch Cooking: This soup freezes wonderfully. Make a large batch and freeze portions for quick future meals.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Definitely! This soup tastes even better the next day. Prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy.
2. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s a great way to introduce kids to new flavors. Plus, blending the soup creates a fun, smooth texture that’s appealing to younger tastes.
3. How can I make it spicier?
Feel free to adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. You can also add a dash of hot sauce while blending for an extra kick.
4. Can I use a different type of stock?
Yes! You can use beef broth to give the soup a different flavor depth. Ensure it goes well with the overall taste you wish to achieve.
Conclusion
Homemade roasted tomato basil soup isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience that takes you back to simpler times.
From the bedside warmth of family kitchens to the current hustle and bustle of life, it remains a comforting classic. With bold flavors from simple ingredients, it captures the essence of home cooking beautifully.
As you navigate this recipe, remember that it’s adaptable—crafted for your tastes and pantry. You’ve now got the skills to whip up this delightful pot of sunshine in your kitchen.
So, gather your friends and family, serve it up with those delicious sides, and enjoy the time spent around the table. You might just make a new family tradition!
Encouraged by a dash of humor, a sprinkle of love, and a whole lot of soul, let’s savor every spoonful. Happy cooking!
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Rebecca Novak is a trained chef with over 10 years of experience in the food industry. She has worked in both fine dining and casual Hungarian restaurants and specializes in creating dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. She also loves exploring different cuisines worldwide, which allows her to bring unique flavors and ideas to the recipes she creates for Hungarianchef.com. Read more