Roasted Tomato Basil Soup (Printable)

Oven-roasted tomatoes with basil blend into a vibrant, comforting bowl bursting with aromatic Italian flavor.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 3.3 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
03 - 4 cloves garlic, peeled
04 - 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced

→ Spices & Herbs

05 - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed, plus extra for garnish
06 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
07 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
08 - Salt, to taste
09 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Fats & Liquids

10 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
11 - 3 cups vegetable broth

→ Finishing

12 - 2 teaspoons sugar, optional, to balance acidity
13 - 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk, optional, for creaminess

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Arrange halved tomatoes cut side up, garlic cloves, and carrot pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
03 - Roast in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes until tomatoes are soft and edges are caramelized.
04 - While vegetables roast, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
05 - Add roasted tomatoes, garlic, and carrot to the pot. Stir in oregano, red pepper flakes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
06 - Add fresh basil leaves and sugar if using. Remove pot from heat.
07 - Blend mixture with an immersion blender until smooth, or purée in batches using a countertop blender.
08 - Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk if desired. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper.
09 - Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with extra basil leaves. Serve hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Takes basic pantry ingredients and fresh veggies for big flavor
  • Easily ready in about an hour including prep
  • Vibrant color and comforting texture for year-round family meals
  • Totally gluten-free and adaptable for dairy-free or vegan diets
02 -
  • This soup is high in vitamin C antioxidants and fiber
  • It freezes beautifully for quick weeknight dinners
  • Perfect for meal prep lunches or cozy evenings
03 -
  • Always roast the tomatoes until deeply golden at the edges A little color means powerful flavor
  • Use an immersion blender with caution for hot liquids Start slow to avoid splatters
  • Do not skimp on the basil Fresh basil right at the end elevates the aroma and taste more than dried ever could