As the sun dips below the horizon and the chill of autumn sets in, nothing warms the heart quite like a bowl of homemade roasted tomato basil soup. Each spoonful is a hug in a bowl, crafted from the juiciest tomatoes and the freshest basil to nourish both body and soul. This vegan comfort food delight is not only easy to whip up but also a crowd-pleaser that brings families together over a cozy meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a delightful starter for gatherings, this hearty soup encapsulates the essence of homemade goodness. Are you ready to elevate your fall cooking game and enjoy the warmth of this classic dish? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is this soup a must-try?
Homemade Delight: This creamy vegan tomato basil soup is perfect for those who crave the comforting flavors of homemade meals without the fuss.
Rich, Warm Flavors: Enjoy the combination of roasted tomatoes and fresh basil, creating a delightful symphony of taste.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be serving up a cozy dish in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for more.
Perfect Pairings: Serve it alongside classic grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread for a meal everyone will love. Don’t forget to check out my recipe for Tomato Basil Chicken for a complete dinner experience!
Tomato Basil Soup Ingredients
• Let’s dive into the delicious components of this creamy vegan tomato basil soup!
For the Soup Base
- Roma Tomatoes – Ideal for their rich flavor; substitute with any ripe, juicy tomatoes if necessary.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and aids in roasting; you may use a different vegetable oil as a substitute.
- Yellow Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; no substitutions recommended for the best flavor.
- Carrots – Contributes natural sweetness; can substitute with celery if you prefer a different flavor profile.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic infuses deep flavor; powdered garlic may be used in a pinch.
- Vegetable Broth – Acts as the main soup base; feel free to switch to chicken broth for a non-vegan alternative.
- Balsamic Vinegar – Adds acidity and depth; apple cider vinegar works well as a substitute.
- Fresh Thyme Leaves – Offers aromatic flavor; you can use dried thyme but reduce the quantity.
For Seasoning and Garnish
- Sea Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; season to taste.
- Fresh Basil Leaves – Provides bright freshness; use for blending or garnish, or substitute with spinach for a different texture.
This luxurious Tomato Basil Soup isn’t just nourishing, but also a delightful way to bring warmth to your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) to prepare for roasting the tomatoes. This temperature will enhance their natural sweetness and intensify the flavors as they roast. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the tomatoes inside for the best results.
Step 2: Roast Tomatoes
Halve the Roma tomatoes and arrange them cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over the tomatoes, then sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, until their edges shrivel and they become tender and caramelized.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion, diced carrots, and minced garlic along with ½ teaspoon of salt. Sauté for about 8 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This step infuses your homemade tomato basil soup with depth and flavor.
Step 4: Simmer Soup
Once the aromatics are ready, carefully add the roasted tomatoes to the pot, along with the vegetable broth, balsamic vinegar, and fresh thyme leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. This process will meld the flavors beautifully in your tomato basil soup.
Step 5: Blend
Allow the soup to cool for a few minutes, then transfer it to a blender. Blend the mixture in batches until smooth, being cautious of steam buildup. After blending, add fresh basil leaves and pulse just to combine. The blended soup should be velvety, creating the creamy texture that defines this delicious tomato basil soup.
Step 6: Serve
Return the blended soup to the pot and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the warm tomato basil soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a visually appealing presentation. Enjoy this comforting dish with a side of crusty bread or grilled cheese for a perfect meal!
What to Serve with Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of comforting soup, especially when paired with delightful accompaniments to create a nourishing meal.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic pairing offers a delicious contrast with creamy cheese and crispy bread, perfectly complementing the soup’s bright flavors.
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Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh, crusty bread provides the ideal vessel for soaking up every drop of soup, enhancing the overall experience.
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Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons in a Caesar salad provide a refreshing contrast to the velvety soup.
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Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a delightful earthiness, balancing the bright acidity of the tomato basil soup beautifully.
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Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad bursting with fresh herbs and vibrant veggies adds a wholesome, nutritious touch to your cozy meal.
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Chardonnay: The crisp acidity and fruity notes of a chilled Chardonnay can elevate the flavors of your soup, making for a delightful pairing.
Take a moment to relish the combination of these delicious sides, transforming your homemade roasted tomato basil soup into a warming feast!
Make Ahead Options
These homemade roasted tomato basil soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the tomatoes and sauté the aromatics up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Simply place the roasted tomatoes and vegetables in an airtight container to maintain their quality. When you’re ready to finish the soup, combine the prepped ingredients in a pot with vegetable broth and balsamic vinegar, then simmer for about 20 minutes. Finally, blend the soup until smooth, adding fresh basil just before serving for that vibrant flavor. This way, you’ll have a comforting bowl of tomato basil soup ready to enjoy with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Tomato Basil Soup
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Tomato Selection: Choose ripe Roma tomatoes for the best flavor; substituting with overripe tomatoes may lead to a soupy texture instead of rich flavor.
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Roasting Time: Ensure you roast the tomatoes long enough to develop caramelization; under-roasting can result in a less intense taste for your tomato basil soup.
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Blending Care: Allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to avoid dangerous splatter; a high-speed blender or immersion blender provides the smoothest consistency.
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Season to Taste: Adjust seasoning after blending, as flavors may concentrate; a pinch more salt or a dash of balsamic vinegar can elevate your tomato basil soup.
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Herb Substitutions: Experiment with different herbs, like oregano or marjoram, for a flavor twist, but start with smaller amounts to avoid overpowering the dish.
Tomato Basil Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these delightful tweaks and substitutions, adding your own personal touch to this comforting dish!
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Herb Twist: Swap fresh basil for oregano or marjoram to create a unique flavor experience. Each herb brings its own aroma, transforming the soup into something special.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to introduce a pleasant heat. It’s a simple way to elevate the flavor profile, making the soup intriguing with every spoonful.
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Chunky Version: Reserve some of the sautéed vegetables before blending for a heartier soup. You’ll enjoy the added texture and flavor bursts in each bite.
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Creamy Addition: For a richer finish, blend in a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream. This is a wonderful vegan option that enhances creaminess without compromising nutrition.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in chopped bell peppers or zucchini along with the onions for extra nutrients and flavor. They add a lovely color and a hint of sweetness.
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Broth Variety: To add depth, replace vegetable broth with a homemade broth or chicken broth if you’re not sticking to vegan.
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Vinegar Swap: Use white wine vinegar instead of balsamic for a lighter tang. It can brighten the soup and is a great alternative if you prefer a different acidity.
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Garnish Variation: Instead of fresh basil, top with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This addition enhances the umami notes of your soup, making it even more satisfying.
These variations can truly elevate your homemade tomato basil soup, turning it into your family’s favorite dish! Don’t forget to pair it with a crunchy grilled cheese or a vibrant salad! If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out these tempting dishes like Tomato Basil Chicken to complete your meal experience. Enjoy creating!
How to Store and Freeze Tomato Basil Soup
Fridge: Store your leftover tomato basil soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, to maintain its creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
Defrosting: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Make-Ahead Tip: This nourishing soup is perfect for batch cooking, making it an excellent choice for busy weeks or unexpected guests. Enjoy quality homemade comfort food any time!
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of tomatoes should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely, for the richest flavor, I recommend using ripe Roma tomatoes. Their sweetness and acidity balance perfectly. If Romas aren’t available, look for any ripe, juicy tomatoes, but avoid overly mushy ones to maintain a satisfying texture.
How long can I store leftover tomato basil soup in the fridge?
You can keep your leftover tomato basil soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to retain that creamy consistency.
Can I freeze tomato basil soup?
Definitely! You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. To do this, allow it to cool completely and then pour it into portion-sized airtight containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
What should I do if my soup is too watery?
If your tomato basil soup turns out too watery, don’t worry! You can thicken it by simmering it uncovered on the stove for a bit longer, which will allow some liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, consider blending in a small amount of soaked cashews or adding a bit of corn starch mixed with water for a thicker texture.
Is this soup suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this roasted tomato basil soup is entirely vegan, made with fresh vegetables and plant-based ingredients. If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, always check ingredients like vegetable broth to ensure they meet their needs. Also, if anyone in your family is allergic to tomatoes, you may want to consider alternative recipes.
How can I make the soup more flavorful if it tastes bland?
If you find your soup lacking in depth, try enhancing the flavors by adding more sea salt or freshly ground black pepper. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also elevate the taste. Additionally, fresh herbs like basil and thyme can be stirred in right before serving to provide a burst of freshness that’s simply irresistible!
Creamy Vegan Tomato Basil Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) to prepare for roasting the tomatoes.
- Halve the Roma tomatoes and arrange them cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over the tomatoes, then sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Roast them for about 1 hour.
- In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped yellow onion, diced carrots, and minced garlic along with ½ teaspoon of salt. Sauté for about 8 minutes until softened.
- Add the roasted tomatoes to the pot, along with the vegetable broth, balsamic vinegar, and fresh thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes.
- Let the soup cool, then blend until smooth, adding fresh basil leaves before the final blend. Return to pot.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
