Introduction
Dive into a bowl of pure comfort with this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup! Packed with garden-fresh flavors, it’s the perfect recipe for cozy nights and gatherings with friends. Each spoonful is not just a meal but a warm embrace, celebrating the delicious bounty of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 3 pounds ripe tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the halved tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season with salt and black pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes until they’re deliciously caramelized.
3. In a large pot over medium heat, add the remaining olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until the onion turns golden.
4. Add the heavenly roasted tomatoes and any juices from the pan to the pot. Stir in the chopped basil and vegetable broth.
5. Simmer the soup for about 20 minutes, letting all the flavors mingle and make magic. Then, let it cool slightly and blend until smooth.
6. Ladle out the velvety soup into bowls. Top with fresh basil leaves, croutons, and a dash of olive oil if desired. Enjoy this hug in a bowl!
Nutritional Information
Per serving:
Calories: 180 kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 11g
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes
Place the halved tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes until they’re deliciously caramelized.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, add the remaining olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until the onion turns golden.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the roasted tomatoes and any juices from the pan to the pot. Stir in the chopped basil and vegetable broth.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Simmer the soup for about 20 minutes, letting all the flavors mingle and make magic. Then, let it cool slightly and blend until smooth.
Step 6: Serve the Soup
Ladle out the velvety soup into bowls. Top with fresh basil leaves, croutons, and a dash of olive oil if desired. Enjoy this hug in a bowl!
Notes
Storage
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Variations
Add cream or a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra richness and flavor.
Cook techniques
Roasting Tomatoes
Roasting tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor of the soup. Ensure they are evenly spaced on the baking sheet and turn them halfway through for even caramelization.
Sautéing Aromatics
Sautéing onions and garlic brings out their essential oils and flavors. Cook them until the onions are golden, which will provide a strong flavor base for the soup.
Blending for Smoothness
After simmering, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending. This helps achieve a smooth and velvety texture. Use a high-speed blender for the best results, and blend in batches if necessary.
Garnishing
Garnish with fresh basil leaves, croutons, and a drizzle of olive oil to add texture and visual appeal. This elevates the dish and enhances the overall flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes can be used, but the flavor may be different. Choose good quality canned tomatoes for the best results.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! The soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage.
Is this soup vegan-friendly?
Yes, this roasted tomato basil soup is vegan. It uses vegetable broth and no animal-derived ingredients.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
How can I adjust the spiciness?
You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference. Omit them entirely for a milder flavor or add more for extra heat.
Conclusion
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Enjoy creating this delicious dish!
