Roasted Tomato Basil Soup A Wholesome And Flavorful Delight

Soup is the perfect comfort food—warming, nourishing, and deeply satisfying. Among the many varieties, tomato basil soup stands out as a timeless classic. Its combination of rich roasted tomatoes, fresh basil, and subtle seasoning creates a flavor that’s hard to resist. Not only is this soup a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a great addition to any healthy eating plan. Below, we’ll dive into a step-by-step guide to making a healthy roasted tomato basil soup that’s both simple and delicious.

Why Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?

Roasting the tomatoes before turning them into soup elevates their natural sweetness and intensifies their flavor. This process caramelizes the sugars, creating a rich, deep taste that can’t be achieved through boiling alone. When paired with fresh basil and aromatic spices, the result is a soup that’s creamy (even without cream!) and bursting with wholesome goodness.

Health Benefits of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

This soup isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with health benefits:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes are loaded with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that supports heart health and reduces inflammation.
2. Immune Boosting: Basil contains essential oils like eugenol, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
3. Low in Calories: This recipe skips heavy cream, making it a low-calorie, guilt-free option.
4. High in Vitamins: Tomatoes provide vitamin C and potassium, while basil adds vitamin K and manganese.

Now that you know why this soup deserves a spot in your meal rotation, let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

To make this soup, you’ll need the following simple and wholesome ingredients:

For the Roasted Tomatoes:

• 2 pounds (about 6 large) ripe tomatoes, halved
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Soup Base:

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth, if preferred)
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh basil leaves
• A drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze
• Croutons or a slice of crusty bread
• A dollop of Greek yogurt or light cream (for a richer texture)

Step-by-Step Instructions For Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

1. Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the halved tomatoes cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Scatter the garlic cloves among the tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized around the edges.

Pro Tip: Roasting the tomatoes with garlic enhances the flavor of the soup. Don’t skip this step!

2. Sauté the Aromatics

While the tomatoes are roasting, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the dried oregano, smoked paprika, and red chili flakes (if using) for an extra kick of flavor.

3. Blend the Roasted Tomatoes

Once the tomatoes and garlic are roasted, transfer them to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. For a chunkier texture, pulse the mixture a few times instead of blending it fully.

Safety Note: If blending while the ingredients are still hot, make sure to leave a vent open to allow steam to escape.

4. Combine the Ingredients

Add the blended tomato mixture to the pot with the sautéed onions. Stir to combine, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Add the Fresh Basil

Stir in the chopped fresh basil and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Blend (Optional)

For a silky-smooth texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, you can leave it as is for a more rustic, chunky soup.

Serving Suggestions For Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

This roasted tomato basil soup is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas:

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic pairing of tomato soup and grilled cheese never goes out of style.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the soup’s richness.
• Whole Grain Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add a serving of roasted veggies for a heartier meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This soup is a great make-ahead option. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

Variations and Customizations For Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

1. Make It Creamy

For a creamier soup, stir in ½ cup of coconut milk, Greek yogurt, or light cream during the final stages of cooking.

2. Add Protein

Boost the soup’s protein content by adding cooked lentils, shredded chicken, or a dollop of ricotta cheese.

3. Spice It Up

If you love spice, increase the red chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

4. Use Canned Tomatoes

When fresh tomatoes aren’t in season, you can substitute with high-quality canned tomatoes. Roast them with garlic for a similar effect.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 350mg

A bowl of healthy roasted tomato basil soup is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients. This recipe proves that eating healthy doesn’t have to be complicated or boring. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dish on a chilly evening or a nutritious addition to your weekly meal plan, this soup is the perfect choice. Try it out, and let the rich, vibrant flavors speak for themselves!