This roasted tomato soup is warm and comforting, packed with sweet, juicy tomatoes and a hint of garlic. It’s perfect for a chilly day or cozy nights in!
Pair it with a crunchy grilled cheese sandwich, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Trust me, I always go for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are essential for the best flavor. You could also use canned whole tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available—just skip the roasting step.
Onion: A large onion adds sweetness. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, you can swap it for shallots or even use leeks for a different taste.
Garlic: Roasting garlic makes it sweet and mellow. If you’re short on garlic cloves, garlic powder can work too—just use about 1 teaspoon.
Broth: Vegetable broth keeps the dish plant-based, but chicken broth can add more depth. Homemade broth is always best, but store-bought is convenient.
Cream: Heavy cream is great for richness, but coconut milk is a nice dairy-free option. You can even omit it for a lighter soup.
How Do I Roast Tomatoes for the Best Flavor?
Roasting tomatoes can really enhance their sweetness and create a deeper flavor. Here’s how:
- Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to get things hot enough for caramelization.
- Spread the halved tomatoes, onions, and garlic on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re in a single layer so they roast instead of steam.
- Don’t rush the process! Let them roast for about 30-40 minutes until they’re soft and starting to caramelize. This caramelization brings out the natural sweetness.
- After roasting, give them time to cool slightly before blending. This helps you mix everything smoothly without the heat making a mess!
Roasted Tomato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 3 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 6 cloves garlic, peeled
For The Soup:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Croutons
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious roasted tomato soup will take about 15 minutes for preparation and around 40 minutes for roasting. Once everything is blended and simmered together, it’s ready to serve in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will help get your tomatoes and veggies perfectly roasted and caramelized.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
On a large baking sheet, place the halved tomatoes, quartered onion, and peeled garlic cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to toss everything until coated evenly.
3. Roast the Veggies:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the vegetables for about 30-40 minutes. They should be soft, caramelized, and aromatic. The garlic should be golden when done.
4. Blend the Mixture:
Once roasted, remove the vegetables from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a blender or food processor. Add 1 cup of broth and blend until you have a smooth mixture.
5. Combine and Simmer:
Pour the blended mixture into a large pot. Stir in the remaining broth and add sugar if you chose to. Bring everything to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to meld all the flavors together.
6. Adjust Texture:
If you want a smoother soup, you can strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another pot. If you prefer a hearty texture, leave it as is!
7. Add Creaminess:
Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk if desired, and taste. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper according to your preference. Warm it again gently, but avoid boiling.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
When ready, ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves and croutons on top. If you like, add a little swirl of cream for that extra touch!
Enjoy your homemade, flavorful Roasted Tomato Soup! It makes for a cozy meal you’ll want to share with friends and family.
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Canned whole tomatoes are a great alternative, especially in the off-season. Just skip the roasting step, and blend them directly with the other ingredients. It will still yield a delicious soup!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
To make this soup vegan, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the cream. You can substitute the cream with coconut milk for added richness without dairy.
What Should I Do With Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to leave some space in the container as it will expand when frozen. Reheat on the stove or microwave when ready to enjoy!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or celery when roasting. They will enhance the flavor and add extra nutrients. Just roast them along with the tomatoes, onion, and garlic!
