If you are looking for comfort in a bowl that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. It’s all about taking simple, fresh ingredients like sweet Roma tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of balsamic vinegar, roasting and simmering them to deepen the flavors, and then blending everything into a luscious, creamy texture that soothes and delights with every spoonful. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just need a bit of homemade goodness, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of tangy, herbal, and rich notes that will make you want to savor every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this soup comes from everyday ingredients that pack a punch. Each one plays a key role, from the juicy sweetness of roasted tomatoes to the fresh brightness of basil, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that elevate this dish.
- 2½ pounds Roma tomatoes: These tomatoes are perfect for roasting and give the soup its vibrant, deep flavor.
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps with roasting to enhance natural sweetness.
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the soup.
- ⅓ cup chopped carrots: Contributes natural sweetness and a smooth texture.
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped: Brings warmth and a mild pungency that rounds out the taste.
- 3 cups vegetable broth: The base liquid that lightens the soup and helps blend flavors seamlessly.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Adds a delicate tangy sweetness that wakes up the tomatoes beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves: Offers an earthy herbal note that deepens the complexity.
- 1 loosely packed cup fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish: The star herb, providing a fresh and aromatic finish.
How to Make Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the halved Roma tomatoes cut-side up on the sheet, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Roast the tomatoes for about 1 hour until they become soft, slightly shriveled, but still juicy. This roasting step intensifies the tomato flavor, bringing out a natural sweetness and a slight caramelization that makes the soup remarkably rich.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
While the tomatoes are roasting, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, garlic, and half a teaspoon of salt. Cook everything for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. This softens the vegetables and releases their wonderful aromas, forming the flavorful base that complements the roasted tomatoes perfectly.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Once the tomatoes have roasted, add them to the pot along with the vegetable broth, balsamic vinegar, and fresh thyme leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes. This simmering melds all the flavors together and makes sure the vegetables are tender, creating a soup that’s layered with beautiful depth and brightness.
Step 4: Blend and Finish
Allow your soup mixture to cool slightly, then transfer it to a blender and puree until completely smooth, or if you prefer, use an immersion blender right in the pot for convenience. Toss in the fresh basil leaves and pulse just until they’re combined, preserving that vibrant green color and fresh flavor right in the creamy texture. Do a final taste check and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your velvety soup into bowls and garnish with extra basil leaves for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve it piping hot with some crusty bread or a melty grilled cheese sandwich to soak up every last drop. Once you try this Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe, it will become your go-to for a cozy yet elegant meal.
How to Serve Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few extra fresh basil leaves on top brightens the soup visually and enhances the aromatic profile. You could also sprinkle on some toasted pine nuts or a dollop of crème fraîche or Greek yogurt for a luscious, tangy contrast to the creaminess. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper adds an extra finishing touch that makes every spoonful feel special.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Classic grilled cheese sandwiches with sharp cheddar or mozzarella make for a nostalgic and delicious pairing. For a lighter option, a fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup beautifully. Garlic bread or warm focaccia are perfect if you want something comforting to dip.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your soup in small shot glasses as an appetizer at gatherings, garnished individually with a tiny basil leaf. Another clever idea is to swirl in pesto or a roasted red pepper coulis for a vibrant contrast of color and taste. You could also hollow out small sourdough loaves and ladle the soup inside for an edible, rustic bowl that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually tend to deepen overnight, making your next serving even tastier. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to keep its freshness intact.
Freezing
This Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until piping hot. You could also microwave individual portions, just stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If the soup has thickened too much after storage, stir in a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Absolutely! While Roma tomatoes are ideal for their balance of sweetness and firmness, you can also use vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes for different flavor nuances. Just make sure to roast them until they’re soft and caramelized to bring out maximum richness.
Is this soup vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, this Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth. It’s a wholesome option suitable for many dietary needs without compromising on taste.
Can I make this soup creamier without dairy?
Definitely! The natural creaminess comes from blending the roasted vegetables well, but if you want it extra silky, try adding a splash of canned coconut milk or a few cashews blended in for a smooth, dairy-free touch.
How do I keep the basil vibrant and fresh-tasting?
Adding the basil leaves at the very end of blending—and pulsing rather than pureeing completely—helps preserve their bright color and fresh flavor. Garnishing with fresh basil leaves right before serving also helps maintain that lovely aromatic punch.
Can I prepare this soup ahead for a party?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving and add the fresh basil at the last minute for the best flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to scale up for larger groups!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something that feels like a little bit of sunshine in a bowl, this Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe is the perfect dish to try. It’s simple enough for a weekday dinner yet special enough to impress friends and family. Once you experience the rich roastiness of the tomatoes combined with fresh basil and a touch of balsamic, you’ll understand why this recipe is such a beloved classic. So go ahead and make a big pot—you won’t regret it!
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Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting and Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This comforting Tomato Basil Soup recipe features roasted Roma tomatoes, aromatic vegetables, and fresh basil, creating a rich and flavorful soup perfect for any season. Roasting the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness, while a blend of garlic, onion, and carrots adds a depth of flavor. Smooth and creamy without cream, this healthy soup is ideal served with crusty bread or grilled cheese for a classic meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2½ pounds Roma tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- ⅓ cup chopped carrots
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 loosely packed cup fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
Liquids & Oils
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Herbs & Seasoning
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Roast the Tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the halved Roma tomatoes cut-side up on the sheet. Drizzle them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 1 hour until tomatoes are slightly shriveled but still juicy, which intensifies their flavor.
- Sauté the Aromatics: While the tomatoes roast, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, garlic, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and release their aroma.
- Simmer the Soup: Add the roasted tomatoes, vegetable broth, balsamic vinegar, and thyme leaves to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes. This lets all the flavors meld beautifully.
- Blend and Serve: Remove the pot from heat and allow the soup to cool slightly. Transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree until completely smooth, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot for convenience.
- Add Basil and Season: Add the fresh basil leaves into the blender or pot and pulse/blend until just combined to preserve the fresh flavor. Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Roasting tomatoes enhances their sweetness and depth of flavor, but if short on time, you can lightly sauté them instead although the flavor will be less rich.
- For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or cream after blending.
- This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Using an immersion blender makes blending easier and reduces cleanup.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more or less vegetable broth according to preference.
