The aroma of caramelized tomatoes wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s heart sing. Cooking up a pot of Roasted Tomato Soup feels like an embrace, especially on those crisp fall evenings when comfort food is a must. This simple yet satisfying recipe gives you the freedom to transform fresh, ripe tomatoes into a velvety bowl of warmth, accentuated by earthy garlic and a touch of sweetness from red onions. The added bonus? It’s vegetarian and effortlessly easy to whip up, making it perfect for both quick lunches and cozy dinners alike. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with friends, this soup is sure to elevate your meal. Are you ready to turn your kitchen into a haven of delicious aromas?
Why Choose Roasted Tomato Soup?
Comforting Taste: This soup is a warm embrace in a bowl, brimming with the rich flavors of roasted tomatoes and sweet toppings.
Incredibly Easy: With minimal preparation, you can have a delicious meal that fits into your busy schedule effortlessly.
Versatile Base: Serve it solo, or elevate it with grilled cheese or a side salad for a complete meal that pleases everyone. If you’re in the mood for something different, consider pairing it with an irresistible Lipton Onion Soup for a twist on comfort food.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for an easy, satisfying lunch throughout the week, or freeze for later cravings.
Flavor Variants: With options for creaminess or a spicy kick, this recipe can adapt to your preferences, delighting both traditional and adventurous palates alike!
Roasted Tomato Soup Ingredients
• Dive into this cozy recipe with all the essentials!
- For the Soup
- Ripe Tomatoes – The star ingredient, providing luscious sweetness; opt for fresh for the best flavor.
- Garlic – Adds an earthy depth; don’t forget to peel before roasting!
- Red Onion – Introduces a lovely sweetness that complements the tomatoes; can swap for yellow onion if needed.
- Olive Oil – Essential for roasting and enhancing flavor; make sure to coat evenly for perfect caramelization.
- Salt – Boosts the natural flavors; substitute with Himalayan or sea salt for a twist.
- Black Pepper – Offers a gentle spice; freshly ground gives the best aroma.
- Vegetable Broth – Forms the flavorful base of the soup; chicken broth is a great alternative for non-vegetarians.
- Dried Thyme – Adds herbal notes; fresh thyme can also be used for a fragrant touch.
- Dried Basil – Complements roasted tomatoes with a sweet hint; use fresh basil for an aromatic upgrade.
- Balsamic Vinegar – Brightens the soup with tangy depth; red wine vinegar is a suitable substitute.
- Sugar – Balances acidity; adjust to taste for your perfect flavor profile.
- Heavy Cream (optional) – Introduces rich creaminess; for a vegan option, substitute with coconut cream.
- Fresh Basil (for garnish) – Perfect for an aromatic finish and a pop of color on your soup!
Embrace the warmth and comfort of Roasted Tomato Soup that invites you to savor each loving spoonful!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roasted Tomato Soup
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare your baking sheet. This temperature is crucial for caramelizing the tomatoes and enhancing their sweetness. Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier, ensuring a smooth start for your delicious Roasted Tomato Soup.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Halve the ripe tomatoes, peel the garlic cloves, and quarter the red onion. Arrange these vibrant vegetables on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re spread out evenly. Drizzle them generously with olive oil and sprinkle a good pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper, thereby creating a flavorful foundation for roasting.
Step 3: Roast the Vegetables
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the vegetables for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the tomatoes are soft and starting to caramelize, their skins slightly wrinkled, and the aroma fills your kitchen. The roasting process will deepen the flavors, resulting in a heavenly blend for your soup.
Step 4: Cool and Transfer
Once the vegetables are done roasting, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This step is important to avoid burns when handling hot ingredients. Carefully transfer the roasted tomatoes, garlic, and onion into a large pot, inviting all that rich flavor into your Roasted Tomato Soup base.
Step 5: Add Broth and Herbs
Pour in enough vegetable broth to cover the vegetables, followed by the dried thyme and dried basil. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. After reaching a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, enhancing the depth of your soup.
Step 6: Blend Until Smooth
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup mixture directly in the pot until it’s silky smooth. If you prefer a traditional blender, let the mixture cool slightly before blending in batches to prevent splatter. Return the blended soup to the pot, ensuring a velvety texture for the perfect Roasted Tomato Soup.
Step 7: Season and Balance Flavors
Stir in balsamic vinegar and a touch of sugar to balance acidity, giving your soup a rounded flavor. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as needed. This step is vital for achieving that comforting and harmonious taste that’s signature to your homemade Roasted Tomato Soup.
Step 8: Optional Creaminess
For that extra richness, consider stirring in heavy cream after the soup has simmered. Heat it through for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cream to meld into the soup, which will create a decadent, creamy texture. This addition can elevate your Roasted Tomato Soup, making it even more indulgent.
Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch. This is where visual appeal meets flavor! Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth of your homemade Roasted Tomato Soup, perfect for cozy moments shared with loved ones.
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Tomato Soup components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the tomatoes, garlic, and onion up to 24 hours in advance, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to lock in their rich flavors. When you’re ready to make the soup, simply transfer the vegetables into a pot, add vegetable broth, thyme, and basil, and bring to a boil. To maintain quality, ensure the roasted vegetables are cooled before refrigerating and blend the soup just before serving to achieve that silky texture. This way, you’ll enjoy a cozy bowl of homemade Roasted Tomato Soup with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Roasted Tomato Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let the soup cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Lay flat to maximize space, and label each container with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir gently to regain its smooth consistency, adjusting with a splash of vegetable broth if needed.
Portions: Divide the soup into individual servings before freezing for convenient, quick lunches. Perfect for satisfying your cravings for Roasted Tomato Soup while ensuring it’s always on hand!
What to Serve with Roasted Tomato Soup
This cozy dish invites delicious companions to complete your meal and create a comforting dining experience.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic pairing is a match made in heaven, with gooey cheese complementing the soup’s rich texture. Melted cheese provides a satisfying contrast to the smoothness of the soup.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping. It adds a delightful crunch and absorbs the savory flavors, making each bite fulfilling.
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Mixed Greens Salad: A light, fresh salad balances the richness of the soup, offering a refreshing crunch and bright flavors to awaken your palate.
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Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring earthy flavors that enhance the overall meal experience. Their caramelization beautifully mirrors the soup’s own roasted notes.
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Pesto Toast: Spread flavorful pesto on toasted bread for a vibrant, herbal contrast. The freshness brightens the meal, while crunchy bread adds pleasing texture.
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Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink to cleanse the palate that complements the tomato soup without overshadowing its comforting warmth.
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Cheddar Biscuit: Soft and buttery, these biscuits add a delightful bite. Their cheesy goodness makes them a delightful accompaniment to each spoonful of soup.
Roasted Tomato Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your soup; these variations will elevate your bowl of delight!
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes before roasting for a zesty kick that warms the soul! A little heat goes a long way in enhancing the flavor profile, creating excitement with each spoonful.
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Flavored Oil: Swap olive oil for infused oils, like garlic or herb-infused olive oil. This adds another layer of flavor, making each bowl uniquely your own.
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Dairy-Free Cream: Use almond or oat milk instead of heavy cream to keep your soup creamy while sticking to a vegan diet. Coconut cream is also a wonderful substitute for an added tropical twist!
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Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley instead of dried thyme and basil. Fresh herbs impart vibrant flavors that brighten up the soup.
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Tomato Variety: Don’t limit yourself to just one type of tomato! Try using cherry tomatoes or heirloom varieties for different sweetness levels and colors that will stun and satisfy.
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Add Texture: For a delightful texture twist, mix in some quinoa or lentils during cooking. This adds heartiness and protein, transforming your soup into a comforting meal.
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Aromatic Depth: Consider stirring in a splash of sherry or white wine just before serving for a sophisticated layer of flavor. This small addition takes the soup from homey to fabulous!
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Serve with a Kick: Blend in some roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor. This not only enhances the taste but also gives your Roasted Tomato Soup an eye-catching color.
Think of these variations as your culinary playground! And if you’re up for trying more comforting options, don’t miss out on delicious recipes like Dill Pickle Soup or heartwarming Chicken Tortilla Soup. Enjoy the journey of flavors!
Expert Tips for Roasted Tomato Soup
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Use Fresh Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes offer the best flavor. Canned tomatoes can work in a pinch but lack the delightful caramelized sweetness found in roasting fresh ones.
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Mind the Roasting: Ensure enough space on the baking sheet to prevent steaming. Crowding can lead to uneven roasting, affecting the texture and taste of your roasted tomato soup.
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Blend with Care: When blending, watch out for splatters! Using an immersion blender keeps things mess-free, but if using a standard blender, allow the mixture to cool slightly for safety.
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Season Thoughtfully: Always taste as you go. Adjust salt, pepper, and sugar to balance acidity; this ensures your soup ends up perfectly seasoned and enjoyable.
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Experiment with Creaminess: For a richer experience, try adding coconut cream if going dairy-free, or heavy cream for that classic creamy texture in your roasted tomato soup.
Roasted Tomato Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right tomatoes for this soup?
Absolutely! Look for ripe, vibrant tomatoes that have a slightly soft touch; these will provide the best sweetness. Avoid tomatoes with dark spots or wrinkles, as they might be overripe. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, go for high-quality canned tomatoes, but be aware that they won’t have the rich, roasted flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftover roasted tomato soup?
I recommend storing your leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Let the soup cool completely before sealing it to retain its flavors. If you’re meal prepping, divide the soup into portion-sized containers before storing!
Can I freeze roasted tomato soup, and if so, how?
Absolutely! For freezing, let the soup cool completely, then pour it into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags, ensuring to leave some space at the top for expansion. Lay the bags flat to save space and label with the date; it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed for optimal consistency.
What if my soup turns out too acidic?
Very common! If your soup is too acidic, simply stir in a little more sugar to balance it out, usually a teaspoon or so depending on your taste. You can also add a dollop of heavy cream (or a non-dairy alternative) to mellow the acidity and make the soup even creamier.
Is this soup safe for those with allergies?
Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but it’s always essential to consider individual allergies. Make sure to check the labels on your vegetable broth and any substitutions to ensure they are free from allergens. For a vegan option, simply skip the heavy cream or replace it with a non-dairy cream!
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
The more the merrier! You can add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini while roasting for additional flavor and nutrition. Just be mindful of roasting times, as different veggies may require varying cooking durations. Enjoy experimenting!
Roasted Tomato Soup That's Like a Hug in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Halve the ripe tomatoes, peel the garlic cloves, and quarter the red onion. Spread them evenly on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
- Roast the vegetables for 30-35 minutes until tomatoes are soft and caramelized.
- Let the vegetables cool for a few minutes, then transfer to a large pot.
- Add vegetable broth, dried thyme, and dried basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Puree the soup using an immersion blender until smooth.
- Stir in balsamic vinegar and sugar, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- For added creaminess, stir in heavy cream and heat through for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
