The Best Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

This roasted tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food, bursting with the fresh flavors of roasted tomatoes and fragrant basil. A healthy and hearty soup that brings out the natural sweetness of tomatoes through roasting, this dish is both simple and elegant. Whether you’re looking for a warming winter meal or a fresh, vibrant starter, this soup will satisfy your cravings. Made with wholesome ingredients, it’s easy to customize with a creamy or dairy-free twist, and it’s ideal for both family dinners and meal prep. Dive into the rich, bold flavors of this deliciously easy-to-make recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (1 kg) Roma tomatoes, halved
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups (1 liter) chicken or vegetable broth
• ¼ cup (6 g) fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda (optional, to reduce acidity)
• ½ cup (125 ml) heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Roasting the Tomatoes:
   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Place the halved Roma tomatoes on a baking sheet, cut side up.
   • Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
   • Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.
2. Cooking the Soup:
   • In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Blending the Soup:
   • Once the tomatoes are done roasting, add them to the pot along with any juices from the baking sheet.
   • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and add the chopped basil leaves.
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Optional Additions:
   • If you prefer a slightly sweeter soup, add 1 teaspoon of sugar.
   • To reduce the acidity, stir in ½ teaspoon of baking soda.
   • For a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Blending:
   • Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring the soup to a blender in batches), blend until smooth.
   • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serving:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
   • Serve with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.

Cooking Tips:

• Roast the Tomatoes: Roasting the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness and intensifies their flavor. Make sure to allow them to get slightly caramelized for added richness.
• Add Baking Soda: This is an old trick to reduce the acidity of tomatoes without adding sugar. It also helps the soup blend smoothly.
• Customize the Creaminess: You can skip the heavy cream for a lighter, dairy-free option or add coconut milk for a unique twist.
• Make Ahead: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove when ready to serve.

Nutritional Benefits:

This roasted tomato basil soup is a nutrient-dense option that packs several health benefits:

• Tomatoes are an excellent source of antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health and reduces inflammation.
• Basil contains essential vitamins like vitamin A, K, and C, promoting immunity and healthy skin.
• Olive Oil offers healthy fats that can support cardiovascular health.
• Garlic and Onion provide powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making this soup not only delicious but also a health-boosting choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Comforting and Flavorful: Roasting the tomatoes brings out a sweet, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with fresh basil.
• Versatile: Whether you prefer it creamy or light, this soup is customizable to your taste preferences.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with antioxidants and low in calories, this soup is not only tasty but also good for you.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this soup in under an hour, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

Dietary Information:

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
• Dairy-Free Option: Omit the cream or substitute with a dairy-free alternative like coconut or almond milk.
• Gluten-Free: This soup is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Low Carb: This soup is low in carbohydrates and fits well into a low-carb or keto diet when heavy cream is added.

Why This Recipe Works:

Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, while the garlic and onion add depth of flavor. Blending the roasted vegetables creates a smooth, velvety texture. The basil brightens the dish, and the optional cream adds richness for a well-balanced soup. The addition of baking soda is a brilliant hack to mellow out the acidity, ensuring that each bite is perfectly balanced.

Conclusion:

The best roasted tomato basil soup is a simple yet sophisticated dish that combines the deep, roasted flavors of tomatoes with the freshness of basil. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or paired with a hearty sandwich for dinner, this soup will warm you up from the inside out. It’s easy to make, nutritious, and customizable, making it a great go-to recipe for any occasion. Prepare it once, and you’ll see why it’s a timeless favorite for any season.

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