Roasted Tomato and Basil Soup: A Comforting Classic for Every Season
There’s something truly heartwarming about a bowl of roasted tomato and basil soup. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a light summer lunch, this dish delivers comfort, flavor, and a sense of nostalgia. Growing up, my grandmother’s version of this soup was a staple in our home. She believed the secret to a soul-soothing soup was in roasting the tomatoes to perfection, and she wasn’t wrong.
Today, I’m sharing a modern take on her classic roasted tomato and basil soup, amped up with rich roasted flavors and a velvety finish. This is the kind of dish that adapts to the seasons, tastes even better the next day, and makes you feel at home no matter where you are.
🌟 Why You’ll Love Roasted Tomato and Basil Soup
This roasted tomato and basil soup is:
- Bursting with caramelized, savory tomato flavor
- Balanced by the fresh, peppery notes of basil
- Perfect for both summer and winter menus
- Great for meal prep and freezer storage
- Easily customizable for vegan, dairy-free, or creamy versions
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6)
For Roasting:
- 2.5 lbs ripe tomatoes (Roma or vine-ripened)
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 6 garlic cloves, peeled
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Soup:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional)
Optional Garnishes:
- Grilled cheese cubes or croutons
- Basil leaves
- Swirl of cream or olive oil
🔥 How to Make Roasted Tomato and Basil Soup
Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice tomatoes and arrange on a baking tray with onion and garlic.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season generously.
- Roast for 35–40 minutes, until caramelized and slightly charred.
Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness — a cornerstone of great roasted tomato and basil soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Base
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium.
- Add chopped carrot and celery, and cook for 7–8 minutes until softened.
This base adds subtle sweetness and depth to the roasted tomato and basil soup.
Step 3: Blend It All Together
- Add the roasted veggies, broth, basil, sugar, and pepper flakes.
- Use an immersion blender or transfer to a standard blender to purée until smooth.
The basil gives the soup its signature fragrance, transforming it into a true roasted tomato and basil soup experience.
Step 4: Simmer and Season
- Simmer for 10–15 minutes on low.
- Stir in cream or coconut milk if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 5: Serve with Style
- Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with toppings of your choice.
❄️ Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for 3 months in airtight containers.
- Reheat: Gently rewarm on the stove. Add a splash of broth if thickened.
🧑🍳 Variations & Customization
- Dairy-Free/Vegan: Skip the cream or use plant-based alternatives.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash more red pepper flakes.
- Hearty Version: Mix in white beans or roasted chickpeas for extra protein.
🥣 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbs | 15g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 8g |
🕰️ Why It’s Perfect Year-Round
- In Winter: Serve piping hot with grilled cheese for cozy vibes.
- In Summer: Chill it and top with basil yogurt for a light meal.
No matter the season, roasted tomato and basil soup remains a favorite comfort food.
🍞 What to Serve with Roasted Tomato and Basil Soup
This roasted tomato and basil soup is delicious on its own, but it truly shines when served with the right accompaniments:
1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
The ultimate classic pairing — crispy, buttery bread with melted cheese is the ideal complement to the soup’s acidity.
2. Garlic Bread
A side of crunchy garlic bread helps mop up every last bit of soup in the bowl.
3. Fresh Salad
A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup and adds freshness.
4. Roasted Vegetables
Add seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or cauliflower for a well-rounded meal.
🧘♀️ Health Benefits of Roasted Tomato and Basil Soup
Not only is this soup delicious, but it’s also packed with health perks:
- Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.
- Basil has anti-inflammatory properties and is a good source of vitamin K.
- Garlic and onions are known for their immune-boosting and anti-bacterial properties.
- The soup is naturally low in calories and can be made completely vegan.
This makes roasted tomato and basil soup a great choice for anyone seeking a nourishing yet satisfying meal.
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🥄 Tips for Perfect Texture and Flavor
- Use ripe tomatoes: Overripe tomatoes are best — they’re juicier and sweeter.
- Roast thoroughly: Don’t under-roast. Caramelization is key for flavor.
- Blending options: For ultra-smooth texture, use a high-powered blender. For rustic charm, use an immersion blender.
- Strain it: For an elegant presentation, strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How to make roasted tomato and basil soup?
A: Start by roasting ripe tomatoes, garlic, and onions with olive oil until caramelized. Blend the roasted mixture with fresh basil, vegetable broth, and seasonings. Simmer, then blend until smooth. Finish with a splash of cream or olive oil for richness.
Q: How to deepen the flavor of tomato soup?
A: Roast the tomatoes to bring out their natural sweetness, and add ingredients like caramelized onions, garlic, a touch of balsamic vinegar, or smoked paprika. Simmering with fresh herbs like thyme or basil also intensifies flavor.
Q: How to make tomato soup very easy?
A: For a quick version, sauté onions and garlic, add canned roasted tomatoes and broth, then simmer and blend. Add basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Use an immersion blender for minimal cleanup.
Q: Is basil good for tomato soup?
A: Absolutely! Basil adds a fragrant, slightly sweet herbaceous note that pairs perfectly with the acidity of tomatoes, enhancing the soup’s overall flavor profile.
Q: How to thicken up roasted tomato soup?
A: Simmer the soup uncovered to reduce excess liquid, or stir in a small amount of tomato paste, cream, or a handful of cooked rice or potatoes before blending for a thicker texture.
Q: How to make tomato and basil soup with Jamie Oliver?
A: Jamie Oliver’s version includes roasting tomatoes with garlic, then blending them with sautéed onions, fresh basil, and vegetable stock. He finishes the soup with a drizzle of olive oil and sometimes a touch of vinegar or cream for depth.
Q: How to improve the taste of homemade tomato soup?
A: Use ripe tomatoes, roast them for sweetness, and add layers of flavor with garlic, herbs, and a splash of acidity (like balsamic vinegar). A swirl of cream or Parmesan cheese can also enhance richness.
Q: What makes tomato soup better?
A: Roasting the tomatoes, using fresh basil, balancing acidity with sweetness (like a pinch of sugar or balsamic vinegar), and finishing with cream, cheese, or croutons can elevate your soup dramatically.
Q: Should I add milk or water to tomato soup?
A: For a creamier soup, add milk, cream, or even coconut milk. If you prefer a lighter broth-based soup, water or vegetable stock is ideal. Avoid adding milk to highly acidic soup without tempering to prevent curdling.
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🧾 Printable Recipe Card
Roasted Tomato and Basil Soup
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: AmericanIngredients:
- 2.5 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 6 garlic cloves
- 1 carrot, 1 celery stalk
- Olive oil, broth, basil
- Optional: cream, red pepper flakes
Instructions:
- Roast tomatoes, onion, and garlic at 400°F for 35–40 minutes.
- Sauté carrot and celery until soft.
- Add roasted mix, broth, basil, and seasonings.
- Blend until smooth and simmer 15 minutes.
- Stir in cream and serve hot or chilled.
