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Roasted Tomato Basil Soup: A Cozy, Delicious Hug in a Bowl

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Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds about 8-10 Roma or plum tomatoes, halved
  • 4 garlic cloves peeled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium sweet onion diced
  • 2 cups 500ml low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
  • ½ teaspoon salt plus more to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper plus more to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves torn or roughly chopped
  • ¼ cup heavy cream optional, for creaminess

Instructions
 

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Slice 2 pounds of Roma tomatoes in half and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet. Scatter 4 garlic cloves around the tomatoes.
  • Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
  • Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized on the edges. The roasting process deepens the flavor, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

  • While the tomatoes are roasting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add 1 diced sweet onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
  • Add the roasted garlic (from the baking sheet) to the pot and sauté for another minute to release its aroma. This step builds the soup’s base flavor beautifully.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

  • Transfer the roasted tomatoes, along with any juices from the baking sheet, into the pot with the onions and garlic.
  • Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth and stir to combine.
  • Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavor becomes.

Step 4: Blend to Perfection

  • Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only part of the soup.
  • If using a countertop blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches. Be cautious with hot liquids to avoid spills!
  • Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed. This step is your chance to tailor the soup to your exact liking.

Step 5: Add Basil and Cream (Optional)

  • Stir in 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, letting them wilt into the hot soup for a burst of fresh flavor.
  • For a creamy finish, add 1/4 cup of heavy cream and stir until fully incorporated. The cream adds a luxurious texture, making the soup even more comforting.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

  • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil.
  • Serve hot with crusty bread, croutons, or a side of grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort meal. Trust me, this combination is pure magic!