This creamy roasted tomato basil soup is a rich, velvety delight made with oven-roasted tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream. Perfect for cozy nights, it’s a classic comfort food that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The roasting process caramelizes the vegetables, adding depth to every spoonful.
There is nothing quite like the smell of roasting tomatoes filling the kitchen on a chilly afternoon. I stumbled upon this method when I had an abundance of ripe tomatoes and did not want to waste a single one. The way the oven concentrates their natural sweetness is absolutely magic.
I remember serving this to my family during a sudden rainstorm that kept us all indoors. Everyone sat around the table with steam rising from their bowls, completely quiet until they finished every last drop.
Ingredients
- Ripe tomatoes: using fresh tomatoes yields the best flavor but high quality canned work in a pinch
- Onion and garlic: these aromatics become sweet and mellow after roasting
- Carrot: this adds a natural sweetness that balances the acidity
- Fresh basil: add this at the end to keep its bright green flavor intact
- Heavy cream: this creates that velvety texture we all crave
Instructions
- Roast the vegetables:
- Toss halved tomatoes onion garlic and carrot with olive oil and seasonings then roast until soft and caramelized
- Simmer the base:
- Transfer the roasted vegetables and their juices to a pot add broth and let it simmer for a few minutes
- Blend it smooth:
- Stir in fresh basil and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until completely silky
- Add the cream:
- Pour in the heavy cream and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of sugar if needed
This soup quickly became a staple in our home for lazy Sunday lunches. It pairs perfectly with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for dipping.
Making It Vegan
You can easily swap the heavy cream for full fat coconut milk or soaked cashews for a dairy free version.
Spice It Up
If you like a little kick add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetables before you roast them.
Serving Suggestions
A drizzle of good olive oil on top makes a beautiful presentation.
- Use heirloom tomatoes for a stunning color variety
- Make a double batch and freeze the extras
- Always serve with crusty bread for soaking up the broth
Enjoy this warm hug in a bowl whenever you need comfort.
Recipe FAQs
- → How long does it take to make?
-
The total time is 1 hour, including 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking.
- → Can this soup be made vegan?
-
Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
- → What can I serve with this soup?
-
It pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.
- → Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
-
Fresh tomatoes work best for roasting, but canned tomatoes can be used if fresh aren’t available, though the flavor may differ slightly.
- → How should I store leftovers?
-
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.