Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful bowl of comfort that brings warmth and flavor to any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting friends for lunch, this soup is perfect for using up garden-fresh tomatoes. With its rich, roasted flavors complemented by aromatic basil, you’ll find that this easy tomato basil soup recipe outshines any canned version.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This homemade roasted tomato basil soup requires simple ingredients and minimal steps, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Full of Flavor: The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a rich and savory taste.
• Versatile Add-ins: Customize your soup with various optional add-ins like coconut milk for creaminess or Parmesan cheese for tanginess.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with fresh ingredients, this soup is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a great choice for a light meal.
• Perfect for Any Season: Whether you enjoy it hot in winter or chilled in summer, this tomato basil soup works beautifully year-round.

Tools and Preparation

To make your homemade roasted tomato basil soup efficiently, gather the essential tools and equipment beforehand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor or blender
• Large pot
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor or blender: Essential for achieving that smooth, creamy texture that makes this soup irresistible.
• Large pot: Necessary for simmering the blended soup and bringing all flavors together.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting your tomatoes and garlic evenly without fuss.

Ingredients

The best homemade roasted tomato basil soup made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, caramelized onions and optional add-ins for extra creaminess. This easy tomato basil soup recipe is full of flavor and the best way to use up garden tomatoes! You’ll never want to go back to the canned stuff after you try this.

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 enhancing experience
• A tablespoon or two of butter, for richer flavor

How to Make Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Caramelize Onions

While the tomatoes roast, heat ½ tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and stir to coat them with oil. Cook while stirring occasionally. Check every 5-10 minutes until they are completely caramelized and golden, which usually takes about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Blend Roasted Ingredients

Once the tomatoes and garlic are done roasting, allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. Transfer them to a food processor or high-powered blender along with caramelized onions. Blend until smooth. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot if preferred.

Step 4: Combine Flavors

Return the blended mixture back into the pot over medium-low heat. Stir in oregano, vegetarian broth (or water), along with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, mix in any optional add-ins at this time. Let the tomato soup simmer for about 10 minutes before serving.

This homemade roasted tomato basil soup serves four people perfectly alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread. Enjoy your comforting bowl of goodness!

How to Serve Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Serving homemade roasted tomato basil soup can elevate your dining experience. It pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

With Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

• A classic pairing that never disappoints. The crispy, cheesy goodness of grilled cheese complements the warm, rich flavors of the soup perfectly.

Topped with Fresh Basil

• Add a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves on top for an aromatic touch. This enhances the flavor and gives a vibrant look to your soup.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and depth. It’s a simple way to elevate the dish without much effort.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping. This adds texture and is perfect for sopping up every last bit of that delicious soup.

Garnished with Parmesan Cheese

• For those who enjoy a cheesy boost, freshly grated Parmesan can amplify the flavor profile. Just sprinkle it on right before serving.

Served in Bread Bowls

• Get creative by serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This fun presentation makes for an impressive meal that guests will love.

How to Perfect Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Making homemade roasted tomato basil soup is simple, but there are ways to enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use ripe tomatoes – Choosing fully ripe tomatoes will provide the best natural sweetness and acidity.
• Roast longer for deeper flavor – If you prefer a richer taste, roast your tomatoes and garlic a little longer until they caramelize more.
• Blend thoroughly – For a smoother texture, ensure you blend well until there are no chunks left.
• Taste as you go – Adjust seasoning gradually. Taste after each addition of salt or broth to achieve your desired flavor profile.
• Experiment with herbs – Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or parsley to give unique twists to your soup.
• Store properly – If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for later enjoyment.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Pairing side dishes with homemade roasted tomato basil soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
2. Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or vegetables make a hearty addition.
3. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender adds color and nutrition.
4. Veggie Quesadillas – Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese and veggies complement the soup’s flavors nicely.
5. Cheesy Garlic Bread – Indulge in garlic bread topped with melted cheese for a savory treat alongside your soup.
6. Crispy Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips provide a satisfying contrast and can be used for dipping.
7. Couscous Salad – Light couscous salad loaded with veggies offers a pleasant texture alongside the creamy soup.
8. Pasta Salad – A chilled pasta salad can balance out the warmth of the soup while providing additional flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making homemade roasted tomato basil soup can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect its flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfect every time.

• Using unripe tomatoes: Unripe tomatoes lack flavor. Always choose ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best taste.
• Not roasting long enough: Roasting enhances flavors. Ensure you roast the tomatoes and garlic for at least 40 minutes to bring out their natural sweetness.
• Skipping caramelization of onions: Caramelized onions add depth. Take the time to properly caramelize your onions for rich flavor instead of rushing this step.
• Over or under-seasoning: Seasoning is key. Taste your soup as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to achieve a balanced flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Not blending thoroughly: A smooth consistency makes the soup enjoyable. Blend until completely smooth; if using an immersion blender, make sure there are no chunks left.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

• Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered in an oven-safe dish for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Gently heat on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about homemade roasted tomato basil soup that might help you make the best version possible.

What is the best type of tomato for homemade roasted tomato basil soup?

Roma or plum tomatoes are ideal because they have fewer seeds and a denser flesh, which results in richer flavor.

Can I make homemade roasted tomato basil soup vegan?

Yes! Simply use light coconut milk or omit any dairy products for a delicious vegan version of this soup.

How do I enhance the flavor of my homemade roasted tomato basil soup?

You can add herbs like thyme or parsley, or even a splash of lemon juice for brightness and complexity.

Can I use store-bought broth instead of making my own?

Absolutely! Using store-bought vegetarian broth is a great time-saver while still adding depth of flavor to your soup.

How do I customize my homemade roasted tomato basil soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers during roasting, or stir in cooked quinoa or lentils for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Homemade roasted tomato basil soup is not only delightful but also versatile! You can customize it with various add-ins based on your preferences. Whether you enjoy it creamy or chunky, this recipe is perfect for using up garden tomatoes. Give it a try today!