Looking for an easy and delicious recipe for creamy roasted tomato soup? You've come to the right place! This comforting bowl is packed with flavor and takes just a few simple steps to make. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner, you’ll find joy in transforming fresh tomatoes into a rich, creamy delight. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions that will have you savoring every spoonful in no time!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: The use of ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs makes this soup vibrant and full of flavor.
- Simple Preparation: With minimal steps, this recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Versatile Options: You can customize the soup with different herbs or even make it dairy-free by using coconut cream.
- Comfort in a Bowl: This velvety soup is not only comforting but also nutritious, perfect for any season.
Ingredients
Key Ingredients for Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, quartered
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative)
- Fresh basil leaves, torn, for garnish
The star of this dish is ripe tomatoes. Their sweetness shines through when roasted. Onion and garlic add depth and flavor. Olive oil helps everything roast nicely. The herbs, basil and oregano, bring an aromatic touch. Vegetable broth adds body to the soup. Heavy cream makes it rich and smooth. You can use coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Fresh basil leaves at the end brighten the soup.
Optional Ingredients for Variation
- Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
- A splash of balsamic vinegar for tang
- Other herbs like thyme or parsley for different flavors
Feel free to play around with these options. Adding crushed red pepper gives a nice kick. A sprinkle of Parmesan adds savory depth. Balsamic vinegar brightens the flavor. Different herbs can change the taste profile to suit your mood.
Substitutions for Dietary Needs
- Use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream for fewer calories.
- Swap vegetable broth for chicken broth if not vegetarian.
- Replace tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a different flavor.
- Use almond milk instead of coconut cream for a nut-based dairy-free choice.
These substitutions help you cater to various diets. Adjust the recipe to fit your needs. Enjoy the flexibility!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important for roasting. A hot oven helps the tomatoes cook well and become sweet.
Preparing the Tomato Mixture
On a large baking sheet, place 2 lbs of quartered ripe tomatoes, 1 chopped onion, and 4 peeled garlic cloves. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Add sea salt, black pepper, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Mix well. This will help all the flavors blend together.
Roasting the Vegetables
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast the vegetables for 30-35 minutes. They should be blistered and caramelized. This step brings out their natural sweetness.
Blending to Perfection
Once roasted, carefully take the baking sheet out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes. Transfer the roasted mixture into a high-speed blender. Add 2 cups of vegetable broth. Blend until smooth. If you like some texture, pulse a few times for a chunkier soup.
Simmering with Cream
Pour the blended soup into a large saucepan. Place it over medium heat. Gradually stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or coconut cream. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes. This helps the flavors mix well.
Serving Suggestions
Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve the soup hot in bowls. Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves for color and flavor. Enjoy your creamy roasted tomato soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To make your soup creamy, blend it well. Use a high-speed blender for a smooth finish. If you like some texture, pulse the blender a few times. This gives you a nice mix of creamy and chunky. You can also adjust the thickness by adding more or less broth. If the soup is too thick, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Enhancing Flavors with Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs can brighten your soup. I suggest using torn basil leaves as a garnish. They add a burst of flavor and color. You can also mix in fresh thyme or parsley while cooking. These herbs bring out the sweetness of the roasted tomatoes. Just remember to add them towards the end to keep their fresh taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is not seasoning enough. Make sure to taste your soup as you cook. Add sea salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Another mistake is overcooking the garlic. If garlic burns, it will taste bitter. Roast it just until golden to keep its sweet flavor. Lastly, don’t skip the cream! It adds richness and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Pro Tips
- Use Seasonal Tomatoes: For the best flavor, try to use ripe, in-season tomatoes. They will be sweeter and more flavorful than out-of-season varieties.
- Blend in Batches: If your blender is small, blend the soup in batches to avoid overflow. This ensures a smooth consistency without making a mess.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, reduce the amount of cream or substitute with a plant-based alternative. You can also add more vegetable broth for a thinner consistency.
- Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of your soup. Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary along with the basil for a unique twist.
Variations
Dairy-Free Option
You can make this soup dairy-free. Instead of heavy cream, use coconut cream. This swap keeps the soup rich and creamy. It also adds a hint of sweetness. If you prefer, you can also use almond milk or cashew cream. Just remember, these options may change the flavor a bit.
Adding Heat with Spices
Want some spice? You can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Start small, like 1/4 teaspoon, and taste as you go. This gives your soup a nice kick without being too hot. You can also try adding a dash of smoked paprika for a warm flavor. It pairs well with the tomatoes and herbs.
Incorporating Other Vegetables
Get creative by adding other veggies. Carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini work well. Roast them with the tomatoes to keep the flavors strong. You can even add a handful of spinach or kale when blending. This boosts the nutrition and adds color to your soup. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even cooking.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Soup
To store leftover soup, let it cool down first. Pour it into an airtight container. Make sure to leave some space at the top. This avoids spills when freezing. Label the container with the date. You can keep it in the fridge for up to four days.
Freezing the Soup
If you want to save it longer, freezing works great. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. I recommend portioning it for easy use later. Squeeze out as much air as you can before sealing. It will stay fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
Reheating is simple and quick. You can use a microwave or a stove. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals. Stir in between to help it heat evenly. On the stove, pour the soup into a pot. Heat on low and stir often. Add a splash of broth if it looks too thick. Enjoy your creamy roasted tomato soup warm!
FAQs
What types of tomatoes are best for roasting?
For roasting, use ripe tomatoes like Roma or beefsteak. These types have rich flavors. They also have fewer seeds and thicker flesh. This makes them perfect for our soup. You can also use cherry tomatoes for a sweeter taste. Just remember, the riper, the better!
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Prepare the soup and let it cool. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, just warm it on the stove. If you want to freeze it, do so in airtight containers. It lasts for about three months in the freezer.
How to thicken tomato soup if it's too thin?
If your soup is too thin, there are easy ways to thicken it. One method is to add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water. Another way is to simmer the soup longer. This will reduce the liquid. You can also blend in some extra roasted tomatoes for more texture.
What can I serve with creamy roasted tomato soup?
Creamy roasted tomato soup pairs well with many things. Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic choice. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a light meal. Crusty bread or garlic bread adds a nice touch too. For a fun twist, try topping it with croutons or a sprinkle of cheese!
This blog covered how to make creamy roasted tomato soup. We explored key ingredients, easy steps, and handy tips to create a delicious dish. You learned about variations for different diets and how to store leftovers. Remember to use fresh herbs for extra flavor and avoid common mistakes for the best results. Enjoy your soup-making adventure, and don’t forget to share it with others!
