Welcome to my kitchen, where comfort food meets simplicity! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup that bursts with flavor. This easy dish features fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a touch of cream. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly night or impressing guests, this soup is a winner. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delightful bowl of warmth!
Ingredients
Fresh Produce
– 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, halved
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, peeled
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Fresh produce makes this soup shine. Ripe tomatoes are the star. Their sweetness adds a rich flavor. Choose tomatoes that feel firm. A medium onion gives depth to the taste. Garlic adds a nice kick. Fresh basil brightens the dish. Chop it up just before use for the best flavor.
Pantry Staples
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Pantry staples are key for this soup. Olive oil helps roast the veggies and adds richness. Use salt and pepper to enhance flavors. Dried oregano gives a nice earthy note. Balsamic vinegar can add a sweet touch, but it’s optional. It’s great for those who want a little extra zing.
Broth and Cream
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a lighter version)
For a creamy texture, you need broth and cream. Vegetable broth adds depth and keeps it light. Heavy cream makes it rich and smooth. If you prefer a lighter soup, coconut cream works well. It offers a subtle sweetness and works perfectly with the tomatoes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating and Preparing
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for roasting. Next, take a baking sheet and arrange:
– 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, halved
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, peeled
Drizzle everything with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Then, season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Toss the veggies to coat them evenly.
Roasting Process
Now, it’s time to roast. Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Roast for 30 to 35 minutes. You want the tomatoes to caramelize and the onions to become tender. Look for a nice golden color as a sign of doneness.
Blending and Cooking
Once the veggies are roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let them cool a bit. Transfer the roasted ingredients to a blender. Add 2 cups of vegetable broth and blend until smooth.
Next, pour the blended mixture into a pot over medium heat. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed. Finally, stir in 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar if you like. Let it cook for an extra 5 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend beautifully. Enjoy your creamy roasted tomato basil soup!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Roasting
Optimal Tomato Selection
Choose ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. Look for tomatoes that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch. These tomatoes will have a sweet taste when roasted. Varieties like Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work great. They add depth to your soup.
Roasting Tips for Enhanced Flavors
Roasting brings out natural sweetness. Spread your tomatoes, onions, and garlic evenly on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Don’t forget the dried oregano! Roasting at 400°F for 30 to 35 minutes caramelizes the veggies, adding rich flavors.
Blending Techniques
Achieving Smooth Consistency
Once your veggies have cooled, transfer them to a blender. Add vegetable broth to help with blending. Blend until smooth, and make sure there are no chunks. This step is key for that silky texture.
Adjusting for Thickness
If your soup is too thick, add more broth. Blend again to combine. For a thicker soup, let it simmer longer after blending. The cream will also help with thickness, so adjust based on your taste.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Best Practices for Freshness
Store leftover soup in airtight containers. This keeps it fresh for up to five days in the fridge. Allow the soup to cool before sealing. This helps avoid condensation in the container.
Garnishing Ideas
Garnish your soup with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. A drizzle of cream adds richness. You can also sprinkle some croutons on top for crunch. Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination!

Variations
Dietary Alternatives
You can easily adjust the creamy roasted tomato basil soup to fit your needs. For a lighter version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. This swap adds a lovely hint of sweetness without the heaviness. It keeps the soup rich but light.
For those who follow a vegan diet, consider using plant-based cream alternatives. Options like cashew cream or almond milk work well. They maintain the creamy texture and flavor while keeping the soup vegan.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to boost the flavor even more? Add extra herbs and spices. Fresh thyme or rosemary can deepen the taste. A dash of smoked paprika adds warmth and depth. Experiment with these additions to find your favorite blend.
If you want to make this soup a meal, consider adding protein. Grilled chicken or chickpeas can turn this soup into a hearty dish. Simply stir them in during the final cooking steps.
Serving with Sides
When serving your creamy roasted tomato basil soup, pair it with the right sides. Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic choice. The crisp bread and gooey cheese complement the soup perfectly.
For a creative twist, try serving the soup in a bread bowl. It adds flavor and fun to the meal. You can also garnish the soup with extra basil leaves or a swirl of cream for a beautiful presentation.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
How Long Can It Last in the Fridge?
Creamy roasted tomato basil soup can last about 4 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure it cools down first before you store it. This way, it stays fresh longer.
Proper Containers for Storage
Use airtight containers to keep the soup safe. Glass or plastic containers work well. Ensure the lid seals tightly. This keeps out air and helps maintain flavor.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing Tips for Long-Term Preservation
You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before putting it in the freezer. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion.
Reheating Tips for Best Flavor
When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge. Warm it on the stove over medium heat. Stir often to keep it smooth. Add a splash of water or broth if it gets too thick.
Signs of Spoilage
How to Tell if Your Soup Has Gone Bad
Check for off smells or a change in color. If you see mold, do not eat it. A sour taste is also a sign that it’s time to toss it. Always trust your senses to keep your meal safe.
FAQs
What is Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
Creamy roasted tomato basil soup is a rich blend of flavors. It features sweet, roasted tomatoes, savory onions, and fragrant garlic. The addition of fresh basil creates a fresh taste that lifts the soup. The heavy cream adds a silky texture, making it comforting and smooth. Each spoonful bursts with a mix of tangy and sweet notes. You’ll find it perfect for chilly days or as a light meal.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, you can include a few red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Mix them in when you roast the vegetables. This will infuse the soup with a nice kick. You can also top the soup with a drizzle of hot sauce when serving. Experiment to find the spice level that you enjoy most.
Can I skip the cream for a lighter version?
Yes, you can skip the heavy cream to make a lighter soup. Use coconut cream instead for a dairy-free option. You can also use more vegetable broth to keep the soup light. If you prefer, try adding a splash of almond milk for a creamy touch without the heaviness.
What can I serve with Tomato Basil Soup?
This soup pairs well with many sides. A simple grilled cheese sandwich complements the flavors nicely. You might also enjoy it with a fresh salad or crusty bread. Try serving it with a sprinkle of parmesan on top for extra flavor. Each option enhances the soup and makes a fuller meal.
How do I store leftovers properly?
To store leftovers, let the soup cool first. Transfer it to an airtight container. Place it in the fridge, and it will last for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers to avoid freezer burn. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
In this post, we explored making a delicious creamy roasted tomato basil soup. You learned about essential ingredients like fresh produce and pantry staples. We walked through step-by-step instructions on preparing, roasting, and blending. You found tips on perfecting flavors and storage methods.
Enjoy this soup with your favorite sides for a meal. Experiment with variations to suit your tastes. The joy of cooking lies in trying new things, so have fun with it!
