Delicious Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

When the weather turns crisp and cozy, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of homemade tomato basil soup. This recipe celebrates the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and aromatic basil, making it a perfect dish for any season. Whether enjoyed as a starter or paired with crusty bread for a hearty meal, this soup is sure to satisfy.

Why Choose Roma Tomatoes?

The choice of tomatoes is crucial for a rich, flavorful soup. Roma tomatoes are particularly recommended due to their dense flesh and low moisture content, resulting in a more concentrated flavor. If Roma tomatoes are unavailable, other small plum varieties can serve as substitutes, while larger tomatoes may dilute the flavor and texture.

Ingredients for Tomato Basil Soup

To craft the perfect tomato basil soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 2½ pounds Roma tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• ⅓ cup chopped carrots
• 4 garlic cloves, chopped
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 loosely packed cup fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish

These ingredients work together harmoniously to create a comforting and flavorful soup.

Preparing the Tomatoes: The Roasting Process

Step 1: Roasting the Tomatoes

Roasting tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor profile.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows the tomatoes to roast evenly without burning.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. Arrange the halved tomatoes cut side up on the sheet. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over them, ensuring each half is well coated.
4. Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. The tomatoes should shrivel slightly at the edges while remaining juicy inside. This process caramelizes the sugars in the tomatoes, intensifying their flavor.

Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics

While the tomatoes are roasting, we can prepare the base of the soup:

1. Heat the remaining olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and garlic, along with ½ teaspoon of salt. Sauté the mixture for about 8 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. This step builds the aromatic foundation for the soup, with the sweetness of the carrots balancing the savory notes of the onions and garlic.

Simmering for Flavor Development

Step 3: Combining Ingredients

Once the tomatoes are roasted and the aromatics are sautéed, it’s time to bring the soup together:

1. Add the roasted tomatoes (along with their juices) to the pot with the sautéed vegetables.
2. Pour in 3 cups of vegetable broth, which forms the flavorful base of the soup.
3. Stir in 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves. The balsamic vinegar adds a delightful tanginess that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes, while thyme contributes a fresh, herbaceous note.

Step 4: Simmering the Soup

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for about 20 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds.

Blending for Creamy Perfection

Step 5: Pureeing the Soup

After simmering, it’s time to transform the soup into a smooth, creamy consistency:

1. Let the soup cool slightly to avoid steam build-up in your blender.
2. Transfer the soup to a blender in batches, if necessary, and blend until smooth. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot for convenience.
3. Once blended, add 1 loosely packed cup of fresh basil leaves and pulse until just combined. This step infuses the soup with fresh basil flavor, enhancing its aroma and freshness.

Final Touches and Serving Suggestions

Step 6: Seasoning and Garnishing

Taste the soup and season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the creamy tomato basil soup into bowls and garnish with more fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

Serving Ideas

This tomato basil soup pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic combo.
• Crusty bread or homemade focaccia to soak up every drop of soup.
• Roasted chickpeas or homemade croutons for added texture and crunch.

For a lighter meal, consider serving it alongside a Caesar salad or a refreshing quinoa salad.

Nutritional Benefits of Tomato Basil Soup

This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:

• Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, folate, and potassium, making them excellent for heart health and skin.
• Basil provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to overall wellness.
• The vegetable broth base ensures that the soup remains low in calories while still being filling, perfect for those seeking a healthier option.

Enjoying Your Tomato Basil Soup

With its vibrant flavors and comforting texture, our tomato basil soup recipe is a must-try for any food lover. Perfect for chilly days or as a refreshing summer dish, it captures the essence of home-cooked goodness. So gather your ingredients and enjoy the simple pleasure of a warm bowl of tomato basil soup, knowing that each spoonful is packed with health benefits and satisfying flavors.