Creamy Roasted Tomato and Basil Soup

As the days grow colder and the sweaters come out of storage, nothing feels as comforting as a warm, homemade soup. If you’re craving a cozy, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare, look no further than this Creamy Roasted Tomato and Basil Soup. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a rich, velvety dish bursting with fresh flavors and a hint of sweetness from roasted tomatoes. It’s the perfect way to enjoy fall’s crisp air with a delicious, home-cooked meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy tomato soup is incredibly satisfying, thanks to its perfectly balanced combination of tomatoes, garlic, and basil. Roasting the tomatoes and onions caramelizes their natural sugars, deepening their flavors and giving the soup a slightly smoky taste. The addition of heavy cream gives it a luscious, smooth texture, while fresh basil adds brightness and a burst of herbaceous flavor. Plus, it’s simple to make, making it ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or lunch meal-prep for the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting soup:

• 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes – Fresh tomatoes provide the best flavor, so choose the ripest ones you can find.
• 1 large onion – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth.
• 4 cloves of garlic – Roasting garlic softens its sharpness, lending a mellow, nutty flavor to the soup.
• Olive oil, salt, and pepper – Essential for roasting, as they enhance the flavor of the vegetables.
• 1 cup of vegetable broth – To add just the right amount of consistency.
• 1 cup of heavy cream – For that rich, creamy texture.
• 1 cup of fresh basil leaves – The star of this soup, bringing a peppery, fresh note.
• 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar – This tangy addition balances the richness and adds depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the Vegetables: On a baking sheet, arrange your halved tomatoes, chopped onion, and crushed garlic. Drizzle them generously with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Pop them into the oven for 25-30 minutes, until the tomatoes are caramelized and the onions are tender.
3. Blend to Perfection: Transfer the roasted vegetables into a blender, add the vegetable broth, and blend until you reach a smooth consistency.
4. Simmer and Add Cream: Pour the blended mixture into a pot. Stir in the heavy cream and warm the soup over medium-low heat until it’s just heated through.
5. Add the Basil and Vinegar: Stir in the chopped basil and balsamic vinegar, which adds a subtle tang and rounds out the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
6. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra basil leaves if you like, and enjoy every spoonful of warmth and comfort.

Pro Tips for Perfect Soup

• Roast for Flavor: Roasting the vegetables enhances the flavor, so don’t skip this step. It makes all the difference in creating a deeply flavorful base.
• Blending Tips: If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only part of the roasted vegetables and add the rest directly to the pot.
• Garnish Ideas: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a swirl of cream on top makes this soup even more indulgent.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy roasted tomato soup with a slice of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combination. It also works beautifully as a starter for a cozy autumn meal.

Wrap-Up

This Creamy Roasted Tomato and Basil Soup is your go-to recipe for those chilly nights when you crave a comforting bowl of warmth. With its vibrant color, rich taste, and fragrant basil aroma, it’s bound to become a seasonal favorite. So grab your tomatoes, fire up the oven, and get ready to make this delicious homemade soup. Enjoy each spoonful and let the flavors of fall envelop you in comfort!