Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

The best homemade roasted tomato basil soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. With its rich flavors from roasted tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, this soup is perfect for cozy lunches or as a starter for dinner parties. You’ll fall in love with its vibrant taste and simple preparation. Once you try this homemade roasted tomato basil soup, you’ll never look at canned varieties the same way!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful: The combination of roasted tomatoes and garlic creates a deep, rich flavor that will impress everyone.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a meal on its own or pair it with grilled cheese for a classic combo.
• Healthy: Packed with fresh ingredients, this soup is low in calories but high in nutrients.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this tasty soup in no time.
• Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients to make it your own, whether you’re looking for creaminess or extra herbs.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your homemade roasted tomato basil soup is easy if you have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you need to gather before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting, allowing the tomatoes and garlic to caramelize perfectly.
• Food processor or blender: Ensures a smooth texture by blending all ingredients together efficiently.
• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup and combining all flavors without splattering.

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 enhancement
• A tablespoon or two of butter, for richer flavor

How to Make Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. While the tomatoes roast, heat ½ tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion slices and stir to coat them in oil.
3. Cook while stirring occasionally; check every 5-10 minutes until golden brown (approximately 20 minutes).

Step 3: Blend Ingredients

1. Once tomatoes and garlic are done roasting, cool them for about 10 minutes.
2. Transfer roasted tomatoes and garlic into a food processor or high-powered blender.
3. Blend until smooth, then add basil leaves and caramelized onions; blend again until well mixed.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Pour blended mixture back into the pot over medium-low heat.
2. Add oregano, vegetarian broth, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Incorporate any optional add-ins from above if desired.
4. Allow soup to simmer for about 10 minutes before serving.

Your homemade roasted tomato basil soup is now ready! Serve it hot, garnished with parmesan cheese if desired, alongside your favorite bread or grilled cheese sandwich for an unforgettable meal. Enjoy!

How to Serve Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Serving homemade roasted tomato basil soup can elevate your dining experience. This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings and sides that enhance its rich flavors.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil leaves: Add a few fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and an aromatic touch.
• Chopped parsley: Sprinkling some chopped parsley adds freshness and a hint of bitterness that complements the soup.

Add Creaminess

• Coconut milk: Swirl in light or regular coconut milk for a creamy vegan option that enhances the texture.
• Dairy cream: For those who enjoy dairy, adding whole milk or heavy cream creates an indulgent richness.

Serve with Bread

• Grilled cheese sandwiches: The classic pairing of grilled cheese makes for a hearty meal alongside the soup.
• Crusty bread: A slice of sourdough or baguette is perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious flavors.

Incorporate Cheese

• Parmesan cheese: Grating fresh parmesan on top adds a tangy flavor that perfectly complements the tomatoes.
• Vegan cheese: For a dairy-free option, sprinkle vegan cheese shreds before serving for added flavor without the dairy.

How to Perfect Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

To create the best homemade roasted tomato basil soup, pay attention to detail. Here are some tips to achieve perfection:

• Choose ripe tomatoes: Opt for fresh, ripe roma or plum tomatoes for maximum flavor. Their sweetness enhances the overall taste.
• Roast at the right temperature: Roasting at 400 degrees F caramelizes the sugars in tomatoes and garlic, deepening their flavors.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil will give your soup a vibrant taste. Dried herbs can be used but won’t provide the same depth.
• Adjust thickness wisely: Depending on your preference, add more or less broth to achieve your desired consistency without losing flavor.
• Taste as you go: Seasoning throughout cooking ensures balanced flavors. Adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.
• Simmer before serving: Allowing the soup to simmer after blending helps meld all ingredients together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Pairing side dishes with your homemade roasted tomato basil soup can make it even more delightful. Here are some excellent suggestions:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
   A classic favorite, grilled cheese provides a crunchy and gooey counterpart to the smooth soup.
2. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing salad that complements the tomato flavors beautifully.
3. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and enhances its savory notes.
4. Vegetable Crudités
   Crisp vegetables like carrots and celery provide a healthy crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup.
5. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh vegetables offers a nutritious side that balances out the dish.
6. Cheesy Herb Scones
   These warm scones infused with herbs and cheese pair well with the flavors of tomato basil soup while adding texture.
7. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or vegetables can serve as a filling side dish that complements your meal.
8. Spinach Salad
   A simple spinach salad drizzled with vinaigrette adds freshness and brightness to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfect.

• Not Using Fresh Ingredients – Using stale or overripe tomatoes can lead to a bland soup. Always opt for fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Skipping the Roasting Step – Roasting enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and garlic. Don’t skip this step; it makes a huge difference in taste!
• Overcooking the Onions – Caramelizing onions requires patience. If you rush this process, you may end up with burnt onions, which can ruin your soup’s flavor.
• Forgetting Seasoning – Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing the flavors. Be generous with seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Not Blending Enough – A smooth texture is key for a great soup. Ensure you blend thoroughly until there are no chunks left; this creates that creamy consistency.
• Ignoring Optional Add-Ins – Customizing your soup with optional add-ins like coconut milk or parmesan cheese can elevate its flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 5 days.

Freezing Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop – Pour into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup vegan?

You can easily make this soup vegan by using light coconut milk instead of dairy milk and skipping any cheese or butter additions.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

While fresh tomatoes provide the best flavor, canned tomatoes can be a convenient substitute. Drain them before roasting but expect a different texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

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

Can I add other vegetables to my soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

How can I make this soup spicier?

You can add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for some heat.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Customize it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy this comforting dish any time of year!