The deep, smoky flavor of oven-roasted tomatoes blended with fragrant basil makes this soup a timeless classic that speaks to your soul. Slow roasting the tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness, while the garlic and onion create a savory base that’s both familiar and elevated. Whether served as a starter, a light meal, or paired with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich, this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup brings warmth and elegance to the table. Ideal for both chilly evenings and summer harvest lunches, it’s simple, satisfying, and utterly crave-worthy.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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3 lbs ripe tomatoes (Roma or heirloom), halved
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1 large onion, chopped
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6 garlic cloves, peeled
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1/4 cup olive oil
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
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1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
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1 tsp sugar (optional)
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1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creamier soup)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Arrange the tomatoes (cut side up), onion, and garlic on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
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Roast in the oven for 35–40 minutes until caramelized and slightly charred.
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Transfer the roasted vegetables to a large pot. Add the broth and basil, and simmer for 10 minutes.
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Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
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Add sugar and cream if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning.
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Simmer for another 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or a drizzle of cream.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 185 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Comfort of Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a timeless classic in the world of homemade comfort foods. It has become a staple in kitchens around the globe for its simplicity, warmth, and rich, savory flavor profile. While tomato soup can be made in many ways, roasting the tomatoes and blending them with fresh basil takes the flavor to another level, creating a soup that’s vibrant, aromatic, and irresistibly comforting.
This iconic soup, while humble in its origins, is anything but plain. It strikes the perfect balance between acidity and sweetness, creaminess and lightness, and nostalgia and innovation. Whether served as a light lunch with a piece of crusty bread, as a starter for a larger meal, or paired with the beloved grilled cheese sandwich, Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is versatile, hearty, and deeply satisfying.
The Art of Roasting: Unlocking Tomato Depth
One of the distinguishing features of this soup lies in the method of preparation specifically, the roasting of the tomatoes. Raw tomatoes bring a fresh brightness to dishes, but when roasted, their flavor deepens. The natural sugars in the tomatoes begin to caramelize in the oven, leading to a richer, more robust flavor that forms the foundation of this soup.
Roasting also helps to remove excess water from the tomatoes, concentrating the flavors and making them ideal for a creamy soup base. Combined with roasted garlic and onions, the tomatoes transform into a deeply savory, umami-packed blend that’s elevated by the herbaceous freshness of basil.
This technique not only enhances the taste but also fills your kitchen with an incredible aroma that’s both comforting and inviting exactly what you want from a homemade meal.
Fresh Basil: The Perfect Complement
Basil adds a layer of complexity to the roasted tomatoes, infusing the soup with a hint of peppery sweetness and a slightly minty finish. It’s a herb that naturally complements the acidity of tomatoes, smoothing out the edges and tying the flavors together with its aromatic profile.
Using fresh basil over dried makes a significant difference. The vibrant green leaves bring not only a burst of flavor but also a beautiful color that enhances the soup’s visual appeal. In some variations, basil is blended directly into the soup, while in others, it’s added toward the end or used as a garnish. Regardless of the method, the basil’s role is essential in making this soup memorable.
Customizable for All Seasons and Preferences
One of the most appealing aspects of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is how adaptable it is. It can be made as rich and creamy or as light and brothy as you prefer. Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a velvety texture, or keep it dairy-free for a lighter and vegan-friendly version.
In colder months, serve it steaming hot with hearty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate cozy meal. In warmer weather, it can be enjoyed slightly chilled as a refreshing twist. You can also play with spice levels add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a kick, or stir in Parmesan cheese for a more decadent finish.
Additionally, the soup can be made in large batches and stored in the fridge or freezer, making it a great meal prep option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor over time.
A Nutrient-Rich Option That Doesn’t Compromise on Flavor
Tomatoes are a powerhouse of nutrition, rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which is linked to many health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. They are also an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin K.
Roasting vegetables helps retain most of their nutrients, and the simplicity of the other ingredients onion, garlic, basil means the soup is packed with both flavor and goodness. If you choose to add cream or cheese, it enhances the richness but can easily be omitted or replaced with plant-based alternatives.
Because of this nutritional profile, Roasted Tomato Basil Soup fits well into various diets, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-calorie meal plans.
Culinary Pairings and Serving Suggestions
This soup is endlessly pairable. Its natural acidity and body make it a fantastic companion to a variety of side dishes:
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic. The crispy, buttery bread and gooey melted cheese are ideal for dunking into the smooth soup.
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Croutons or Garlic Bread: Adds a crunchy contrast and makes the dish more filling.
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Salads: Pair it with a light salad featuring arugula, goat cheese, and balsamic vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the soup.
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Pasta or Rice: Add small cooked pasta shapes or rice into the soup to make it heartier and turn it into a full meal.
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Protein Options: Add grilled shrimp or shredded rotisserie chicken for an extra protein boost.
When serving, garnish with a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of parmesan, or a few fresh basil leaves. This elevates not just the presentation but also the flavor experience.
A Crowd-Pleasing Option for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a weeknight dinner, or making a meal for a loved one who’s feeling under the weather, this soup is always a winning choice. It’s elegant enough to serve as a starter at a formal gathering yet simple enough to whip up after a long day at work.
Its nostalgic nature also makes it appealing to children and adults alike. It evokes warmth, comfort, and the care of a home-cooked meal. Few dishes can straddle the line between gourmet and homey as well as this one.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips
This soup stores beautifully. After cooling, transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
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It’s also a great make-ahead dish for meal prepping or for planning ahead of busy weeks. The flavors tend to deepen over time, making leftovers taste even better than the day it was made.
If you’re entertaining, this soup can be prepared in advance and simply reheated before serving ideal for stress-free hosting.
Conclusion:
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is more than just a dish it’s a celebration of simple ingredients, elevated through technique and tradition. With every spoonful, you get a taste of home, warmth, and culinary satisfaction.
This recipe is a beautiful reminder that some of the most comforting meals are born from the simplest ingredients. Whether you’re making it to warm up a chilly evening or just craving something wholesome and delicious, Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a recipe worth mastering, revisiting, and sharing with loved ones.