Introduction to Roasted Tomato Soup
Why roasted tomato soup is a must-try?
If you're looking for a comforting and delicious meal, look no further than roasted tomato soup. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also packs a punch of flavor that warms the soul. Roasting the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness and creates a rich, smoky taste that will leave you craving more.
Many home cooks, myself included, often underestimate the power of simple ingredients. With just tomatoes, garlic, and a few herbs, you can transform your kitchen into a bistro. Plus, making your own soup allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring it’s both healthy and satisfying. Did you know that homemade soups can reduce sodium intake significantly compared to canned options?
Another reason to love this soup? It's incredibly versatile! You can enjoy it as a standalone dish, pair it with a gourmet grilled cheese, or even use it as a base for other recipes. Whether you're rehearsing for a dinner party or simply trying to impress your friends, this roasted tomato soup is sure to be a hit.
Start your culinary adventure today with this classic recipe. You’ll not only love making it but also relish every spoonful!
Ingredients for Roasted Tomato Soup
Creating a delicious pot of roasted tomato soup is as simple as gathering a few fresh ingredients. Here's what you'll need for this cozy dish that warms both the heart and the palate:
- 3 ½ pounds ripe tomatoes: Choose small to medium-sized tomatoes for the best flavor; vine-ripened varieties often work wonders.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: This helps enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes during roasting.
- Fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper: Essential for seasoning, with the sea salt bringing out the tomatoes' rich flavors.
- 1 large onion: A white or yellow onion, diced to add a depth of sweetness to the soup.
- 5 cloves garlic: Minced garlic is a must for that aromatic essence in every spoonful.
- ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika: This adds a lovely smoky finish; trust us, it makes a world of difference!
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: A pinch for that perfect touch of heat (adjust based on your preference).
- 2 ½ cups vegetable broth: Use a high-quality broth—or even homemade—for unparalleled flavor.
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves: Loosely packed, these will provide a burst of freshness right before serving.
- Optional toppings: Feel free to get creative with finishing touches like freshly-grated Parmesan, a drizzle of heavy cream or olive oil, croutons, sour cream, or more basil.
With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you're all set to enjoy a delightful bowl of roasted tomato soup that’s great for chilly evenings or casual gatherings with friends!
Step-by-Step Preparation for Roasted Tomato Soup
Making a delicious bowl of roasted tomato soup is not just an art; it’s a gratifying experience that can easily be accomplished in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process that will elevate your soup game!
Roast the tomatoes
The foundation of your roasted tomato soup begins here. Preheat your oven to 450°F (or 232°C). Take about 3 ½ pounds of ripe tomatoes (any small to medium variety works beautifully) and quarter or halve them, depending on their size. Arrange the cut tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with fine sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. The oil and seasoning will enhance their natural sweetness. Roast in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes until they’ve softened and their skins are slightly charred. This caramelization is key to depth of flavor.
Sauté the onion and garlic
While your tomatoes are roasting, heat up 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add in one diced large onion and sauté it for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in 5 minced cloves of garlic, along with ¾ teaspoon of smoked paprika and ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Sauté everything together for an additional 2 minutes, allowing those delightful aromas to fill your kitchen. The combination of onion and garlic is a classic flavor base that adds warmth to your roasted tomato soup.
Combine with broth and herbs
Once your tomatoes are perfectly roasted, it’s time to blend the flavors. Carefully add the roasted tomatoes (along with their juices) into the pot with the sautéed onion and garlic. Pour in 2 ½ cups of vegetable broth – this will serve as the liquid gold that ties everything together. Toss in about ½ cup of loosely packed fresh basil leaves, giving the soup a refreshing herbal note. Stir to combine, and allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes.
Purée the soup
Now comes the fun part – blending everything into a creamy texture. You can use a handheld immersion blender for this, which makes it easier to achieve your desired consistency directly in the pot. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a traditional blender in batches. Make sure to leave the blender lid slightly open so the steam can escape; this prevents any hot soup from splattering. Blend until smooth, and don’t forget to taste as you go!
Season to taste
Once your roasted tomato soup is puréed to your liking, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a dash more smoked paprika for added flavor. It’s your soup, so feel free to customize it!
With these steps, you are well on your way to enjoying a heartwarming bowl of roasted tomato soup. Happy cooking!
Variations on Roasted Tomato Soup
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
For a classic twist, consider adding fresh basil to your roasted tomato soup. This herb not only enhances flavor but also gives your soup a vibrant, aromatic quality. Simply stir in about half a cup of loosely-packed fresh basil leaves right before puréeing. The result? A fresh, herbaceous soup that’s perfect with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan. You can also experiment by adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of richness.
Spicy Roasted Tomato Soup with Crushed Red Pepper
If you like a kick, this variation is for you! Just add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes during the sautéing process, or increase the amount if you dare. The heat balances beautifully with the sweetness of the roasted tomatoes, creating a warm, cozy bowl. This soup pairs fantastically with a side of grilled cheese or simple crusty bread to help cool your palate. Enjoy customizing it to your spice level!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Roasted Tomato Soup
Making roasted tomato soup can be a delightful experience, and here are some tips to enhance your cooking journey:
Choose the Right Tomatoes
Opt for ripe, flavorful tomatoes! Varieties like Roma or heirloom work wonders in this recipe, bringing out the natural sweetness.
Roast for Maximum Flavor
Don’t skimp on roasting time! Let the tomatoes develop a nice char; this enhances their depth, making your soup rich and savory.
Add Fresh Herbs
Consider throwing in a sprinkle of thyme or oregano alongside your basil. Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile and deliver a vibrant taste.
Blend with Care
If using a traditional blender, allow the steam to escape properly to avoid splatters—this ensures a safe and smooth purée.
Set your soup with a drizzle of olive oil or fresh basil on top and enjoy the comfort of this delicious treat!
Serving Suggestions for Roasted Tomato Soup
Pairing your roasted tomato soup with the right accompaniments elevates an already delightful dish. Here are a few ideas that cater to different tastes:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic! Use aged cheddar or creamy mozzarella for that perfect melt.
- Fresh Breads: Crusty baguettes or warm focaccia serve as delightful dippables.
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of extra basil or a touch of thyme brightens the flavors wonderfully.
- Protein Boost: Add shredded turkey bacon or chicken ham for a heartier meal.
- Garnish: A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of heavy cream can add that touch of gourmet.
Embrace your creativity, and don't hesitate to mix and match!
Time Breakdown for Roasted Tomato Soup
Preparation time
Start your journey with a quick 15 minutes of prep work. This involves chopping your tomatoes, dicing the onion, and getting all your ingredients ready.
Cooking time
Next, you'll spend about 30 minutes cooking. Roast those tomatoes to perfection while sautéing the other ingredients for that delicious flavor infusion.
Total time
In just 45 minutes, you'll have a comforting bowl of roasted tomato soup ready to enjoy! It's perfect for a cozy night in or to impress friends at dinner. If you want to make the most of your time, consider prepping ingredients ahead of time — it can streamline the cooking process even further!
Nutritional Facts for Roasted Tomato Soup
Calories
A serving of roasted tomato soup packs about 150 calories, making it a light yet satisfying choice for any meal.
Protein
Each bowl of this comforting soup contains approximately 4 grams of protein, thanks to the inclusion of nutrient-rich ingredients like tomatoes and basil.
Sodium
With roughly 600 mg of sodium per serving, this roasted tomato soup is flavorful without being overly salty! Adjust seasoning to keep it heart-healthy while still delicious.
For additional insights into the health benefits of tomatoes and recipes, check out Healthline's Tomato Benefits.
FAQs about Roasted Tomato Soup
Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fresh tomatoes bring a bright flavor to your roasted tomato soup, canned tomatoes can be a great alternative, especially when fresh ones aren't in season. Opt for whole peeled or crushed tomatoes in juice for the best taste. Just remember to adjust your seasoning, as canned tomatoes can be saltier than fresh ones.
How long does roasted tomato soup keep in the fridge?
Once prepared, this delicious roasted tomato soup can be stored in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to preserve its flavor. If you want to enjoy it later, feel free to freeze it for up to 3 months! Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What are some topping ideas for roasted tomato soup?
Toppings can enhance your roasted tomato soup experience. Here are some tasty suggestions:
- Freshly-grated Parmesan cheese
- Drizzle of heavy cream or olive oil
- Crunchy croutons
- A dollop of sour cream
- Fresh basil leaves for added color and flavor
Experiment with your favorites and make this soup your own!
Conclusion on Roasted Tomato Soup
Roasted tomato soup is truly a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Its simplicity and taste make it an ideal choice for any occasion. So, gather your tomatoes and ingredients, and enjoy crafting this delightful soup that’s sure to impress family and friends. Happy cooking!
Roasted Tomato Soup
Equipment
- oven
- baking sheet
- Stockpot
- Handheld immersion blender
Ingredients
- 3.5 pounds ripe tomatoes any small- to medium-sized tomatoes will do
- 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
- fine sea salt
- freshly-cracked black pepper
- 1 large white or yellow onion diced
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 0.75 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2.5 cups vegetable broth
- 0.5 cup fresh basil leaves loosely-packed
- optional toppings freshly-grated Parmesan, drizzle of heavy cream or olive oil, croutons, sour cream or fresh basil
Instructions
- Roast the tomatoes. Heat oven to 450°F. Quarter the tomatoes and arrange them cut-side-up on a baking sheet. Drizzle evenly with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until softened, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Sauté the onion and garlic. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the garlic, smoked paprika and crushed red pepper flakes and sauté for 2 more minutes, stirring frequently.
- Put it all together. Add the broth, basil, and the roasted tomatoes (once they are ready) with their juices and stir to combine.
- Purée. Using a handheld immersion blender, purée the soup until it reaches your desired texture.
- Season. Taste the soup and season with extra salt, pepper, and/or smoked paprika as needed.
- Serve. Serve warm, garnished with any extra toppings you would like, and enjoy!
Leave a Reply