The rich, comforting aroma of roasted tomatoes fills the kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. On one of those rainy afternoons when I was determined not to let a single ingredient go to waste, I whipped up a batch of Roasted Tomato Soup that transformed the most common pantry staples into something extraordinary. This soup, bursting with flavor and warmth, not only cleared out my fridge but also became my go-to dish for impressing friends and cozying up on chilly nights.
What I love about this recipe is its versatility; it’s as delightful with a splash of cream for a richer taste as it is when kept plant-based. Combining roasted tomatoes, garlic, and herbs creates a rich, delicious base that’s perfect for customizing, whether you're adhering to a vegan diet or feeding a crowd. The beauty lies in its simplicity-just a few pantry ingredients come together to create a heartwarming and nutritious meal that redefines the concept of leftovers. Join me in embracing the flavors of your pantry while minimizing food waste!
Why choose Roasted Tomato Soup tonight?
Comforting Aroma: The inviting smell of roasted tomatoes envelops your kitchen, promising a heartwarming meal.
Culinary Versatility: Perfectly adaptable, this soup allows you to add cream for richness or enjoy it plant-based, catering to all diets.
Flavor Explosion: With the perfect blend of roasted tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, your taste buds will dance with delight.
Minimal Ingredients: You'll find that just a handful of pantry staples transform into a nourishing meal, reducing food waste effortlessly.
Easy to Prepare: Whip it up in no time, making it a quick option for busy evenings or spontaneous guests.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at dinner parties or cozy nights in; everyone will love this warm, flavorful bowl of comfort!
Roasted Tomato Soup Ingredients
• Simple essentials for a delicious soup.
For the Soup Base
• Canned Tomatoes - Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for a rich flavor, or fresh tomatoes when in season for a fresher taste.
• Garlic - Fresh garlic cloves bring out warmth; consider using roasted garlic for a sweeter touch.
• Onion - A yellow or white onion adds depth, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
• Vegetable Broth - Opt for low-sodium broth; it enhances flavor without overpowering the soup.
For the Seasoning
• Dried Basil - Adds a fragrant Italian essence; feel free to swap for oregano or thyme if preferred.
• Salt & Pepper - Season to taste; they bring the flavors together beautifully.
• Sugar - A pinch helps counterbalance acidity, especially useful if you’re using canned tomatoes.
Optional Add-ins
• Heavy Cream - Stir in for a luscious, creamy texture if you’re in the mood for richness; otherwise, it can remain plant-based.
• Fresh Herbs - Top with fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant pop of color and flavor just before serving.
These ingredients make for a versatile Roasted Tomato Soup that can easily adapt to what you already have in your pantry, keeping waste at bay while creating something cozy and delightful!
How to Make Roasted Tomato Soup
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your tomatoes roast perfectly, intensifying their flavors.
Prepare the Tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, cut them in half and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
Roast the Tomatoes: Roast the tomatoes in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until they are caramelized and juicy, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Sauté the Aromatics: While the tomatoes roast, chop the onion and garlic. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Combine the Ingredients: Once the tomatoes are roasted, add them to the pot along with the canned tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir to combine everything.
Season the Soup: Add dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld for about 10-15 minutes.
Blend the Soup: For a smooth texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until creamy. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches (be cautious with hot liquids) for a silky consistency.
Final Taste Adjustment: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in heavy cream at this stage and heat through.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired. Serve with crusty bread for the perfect pairing.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of olive oil for added richness just before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Roasted Tomato Soup
Customize your soup experience with these delightful variations that will elevate your meal to new heights!
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a rich, vegan twist that's beautifully creamy.
Heat it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick that excites the taste buds.
Herb Infusion: Swap dried basil for fresh thyme or rosemary to create an aromatic flavor profile that's uniquely yours.
Smoky Flavor: Include smoked paprika for an unexpected depth; this adds a warm, smoky note that beautifully complements the tomatoes.
Roasted Veggies: Toss in roasted bell peppers or zucchini for an extra serving of vegetables that heightens flavor and nutrition.
Cheesy Delight: Stir in a handful of grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast before serving for a nutty richness that elevates the soup.
Protein Boost: Add white beans or lentils for added protein, creating a heartier soup that makes a full meal in a bowl.
Nutty Crunch: Top your soup with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds right before serving for a delightful crunch that adds texture.
Embrace the joy of cooking with your pantry staples and let your creativity shine in every bowl!
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Tomato Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onion and garlic and roast the tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Simply store the roasted ingredients in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, combine the roasted ingredients with the canned tomatoes and vegetable broth, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors. To maintain quality, cool the ingredients completely before refrigerating. With these preparations, you'll have a delicious, homemade Roasted Tomato Soup ready to serve with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Roasted Tomato Soup
• Choose Quality Tomatoes: Always opt for high-quality canned tomatoes or ripe fresh ones to ensure maximum flavor in your Roasted Tomato Soup.
• Don't Rush Roasting: Give the tomatoes enough time in the oven to caramelize. This step enhances the sweetness and depth of your soup.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, add less broth. For a lighter version, simply increase the broth until satisfied.
• Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: If you have fresh herbs, use them for a brighter flavor. Add them at the end to preserve their essence in the soup.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasonings gradually to find the perfect balance without overwhelming the flavor.
• Storage Savvy: Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in airtight containers. It keeps the flavors intact and extends freshness!
What to Serve with Roasted Tomato Soup?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the bold flavors of creamy, velvety soup.
- Crusty Bread: This classic pairing allows you to savor every drop of soup, adding a satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooey, melty cheese with buttery bread is a nostalgic favorite that balances the soup’s acidity beautifully.
- Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with arugula and lemon vinaigrette adds brightness and texture, enhancing the meal’s freshness.
- Savory Cheese Platter: Pairing cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy Brie can add a rich, flavorful contrast to the tomato soup’s warmth.
- Garlic Bread: The indulgent flavors of garlic-studded bread perfectly complement the soup while delivering an extra layer of comfort.
- Wine Harmony: A glass of light red wine or a crisp white can enhance the meal’s aromas, offering a silky finish to your dining experience.
- Herbed Crostini: Top toasted bread with herbed cheese for a delightful appetizer or side, marrying flavors that elevate the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add some seasonal roasted veggies on the side for extra fiber and a burst of natural sweetness; simple and nutritious!
- Fruit Tart: If you're feeling adventurous, a light fruit tart or galette can provide a sweet contrast to the savory soup, ending the meal on a fresh note.
How to Store and Freeze Roasted Tomato Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Roasted Tomato Soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the soup has cooled completely before sealing.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Remember to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
Serving Fresh: For optimal taste, it's best to consume the soup fresh, but having it stored is a great way to minimize food waste!
Roasted Tomato Soup Recipe FAQs
How ripe should my tomatoes be for roasting?
Absolutely, you want your tomatoes to be at their peak ripeness! If you’re using fresh tomatoes, choose ones that are firm, plump, and have a slight give when pressed. Look for vibrant colors, free from dark spots, as these indicate they’re perfect for roasting. Overripe tomatoes can work too, as they become sweeter, just ensure there aren’t too many soft spots!
What's the best way to store leftover Roasted Tomato Soup?
You can easily store your leftover Roasted Tomato Soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to retain that hearty, delicious flavor. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it - just pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and it will last up to 3 months!
Can I freeze Roasted Tomato Soup? How do I do it?
Yes! Freezing Roasted Tomato Soup is a great way to preserve those flavors for later. First, allow the soup to cool completely. Then, select freezer-safe containers or bags. Portion out the soup into these containers, making sure to leave about an inch of space at the top for expansion. Label with the date, seal tightly, and place in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over medium heat while stirring occasionally.
What should I do if my soup is too acidic?
No worries! If you find your soup too acidic, you can balance it with a touch of sugar, usually just 1/2 teaspoon is enough. You might also add a splash of cream or even a little baking soda (one pinch) to neutralize the acidity, but go easy on the baking soda as it can alter the flavor if overdone. Taste as you go until you achieve that perfect balance!
Is this Roasted Tomato Soup suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This soup is naturally vegan if you leave out the heavy cream. The combination of roasted tomatoes, garlic, and herbs already creates a rich flavor profile, making it totally satisfying on its own. If you want creaminess, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or soaking some cashews and blending them into the soup for that creamy texture without dairy!
Divine Roasted Tomato Soup: Comfort in Every Delicious Spoonful
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- If using fresh tomatoes, cut them in half and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
- Roast the tomatoes for 25-30 minutes until caramelized and juicy.
- Chop the onion and garlic. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Add the roasted tomatoes, canned tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot and stir to combine.
- Add dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste and bring to a simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until creamy, or transfer to a blender in batches.
- Taste and adjust seasoning; stir in heavy cream if desired.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh herbs and serve with crusty bread.
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