This Creamy Roasted Cherry Tomato Soup is a delightful way to enjoy the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes. Roasting them intensifies their flavor, creating a rich and velvety soup that is both comforting and delicious. A hint of basil and garlic enhances the taste, while a splash of cream adds the perfect touch of indulgence. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy weeknight dinner or serve it as an elegant starter, this soup pairs beautifully with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich, warm crusty bread, or even a fresh garden salad. Simple, wholesome, and packed with fresh flavors, this dish is bound to become a new favorite in your kitchen!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 lbs cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (or 1 tsp dried basil)
- 3/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
- Pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place cherry tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil in a baking dish. Toss to coat.
- Roast for 35 minutes, then let cool for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the roasted tomatoes (with their oil) to a blender.
- Add broth, basil, salt, pepper, and cream. Blend on low until smooth (30-60 seconds).
- If desired, strain the soup to remove tomato skins before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Cooling Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes Kcal: 224 kcal | Servings: 4
The Inspiration Behind Roasted Cherry Tomato Soup
Tomato-based soups have been enjoyed for centuries, with variations found in Italian, Spanish, and French cuisine. Traditional tomato soup is often made with canned tomatoes, simmered on the stove with garlic, onions, and seasonings. However, roasting fresh cherry tomatoes takes this classic dish to another level by intensifying the sweetness and depth of flavor.
Roasting vegetables enhances their natural sugars, creating a deep, caramelized taste that is difficult to achieve with raw or canned ingredients. When blended into a creamy soup, roasted cherry tomatoes provide a rich and velvety texture with a slightly smoky, sweet undertone. Paired with garlic, fresh basil, and a touch of cream, this soup becomes an elevated yet simple dish that appeals to all palates.
Why Cherry Tomatoes?
You might wonder, why use cherry tomatoes instead of regular-sized tomatoes? Here are a few key reasons:
- Intense Sweetness: Cherry tomatoes contain a higher concentration of natural sugars, making them naturally sweeter than larger tomatoes.
- Less Acidity: Their mild acidity ensures a balanced, smooth soup that doesn’t require additional sugar.
- Juicy and Flavorful: Since cherry tomatoes have a high juice content, they blend beautifully into a creamy consistency.
- Year-Round Availability: While garden-grown tomatoes are best in summer, cherry tomatoes are widely available throughout the year.
Health Benefits of Roasted Cherry Tomato Soup
Not only is this soup delicious, but it also offers numerous health benefits. Here’s why this dish is a nutritious addition to your diet:
✔ Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known for its cancer-fighting properties and heart health benefits. Roasting tomatoes increases lycopene absorption, making this soup even more beneficial.
✔ Boosts Immunity: The garlic and basil in this recipe contain anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, helping to strengthen the immune system.
✔ Low in Calories, High in Nutrients: This soup is light yet filling, providing essential vitamins like vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin A while remaining low in calories.
✔ Gluten-Free and Vegetarian-Friendly: With simple ingredient swaps, this recipe can also be made vegan by substituting heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative.
✔ Supports Digestion: The combination of tomatoes and olive oil aids in digestion, thanks to their fiber content and healthy fats.
Pairing Suggestions: The Perfect Accompaniments
A bowl of Creamy Roasted Cherry Tomato Soup is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with complementary dishes enhances the overall experience. Here are some delicious pairing options:
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic and timeless pairing, the crisp, buttery bread with melted cheese creates the perfect contrast to the smooth, velvety soup.
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Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast: A slice of warm, toasted bread or garlic crostini adds crunch and a wonderful garlicky aroma to each bite.
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Salads: Pair your soup with a fresh Caprese salad (tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella) or a light arugula salad for a balanced meal.
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Pasta: Enjoy this soup as a starter before a main dish like spaghetti aglio e olio, ravioli, or penne with a light cream sauce.
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Cheese and Crackers: A selection of cheeses, olives, and whole-grain crackers makes for a sophisticated appetizer alongside a bowl of this soup.
How to Store and Reheat Your Soup
One of the best things about Roasted Cherry Tomato Soup is that it stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat it for later use:
✔ Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
✔ Freezing: This soup freezes well! Store it in freezer-safe containers or portioned freezer bags for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
✔ Reheating: Warm the soup on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened, add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency. Avoid boiling to preserve the cream’s texture.
Ways to Customize This Soup
While this recipe is delicious as is, you can easily customize it based on your taste preferences:
👉 Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.
👉 Enhance the Flavor: Roast some onions, carrots, or bell peppers along with the tomatoes for a richer taste.
👉 Make It Dairy-Free: Swap the heavy cream with coconut milk, cashew cream, or almond milk for a vegan-friendly version.
👉 Add Protein: Serve the soup with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
👉 Herb Variations: While basil pairs beautifully with tomatoes, you can experiment with fresh thyme, oregano, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make soup, this Creamy Roasted Cherry Tomato Soup is the perfect choice. With its rich flavors, velvety texture, and wholesome ingredients, this dish is a wonderful addition to any meal plan. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold winter evening or serving it as a refreshing summer dish, this soup will quickly become a household favorite.
By roasting the cherry tomatoes, you unlock a depth of flavor that elevates a simple tomato soup into something extraordinary. Plus, with so many ways to customize and pair it, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.