Get ready to transform ordinary tomatoes into an extraordinary culinary experience that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This Roasted Vine and Roma Tomato Basil Soup isn't just another soup recipe – it's a flavor-packed journey that elevates simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality masterpiece. Imagine the rich, caramelized sweetness of roasted tomatoes blended with fragrant basil, creating a velvety smooth soup that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 6 cups chopped tomatoes (vine and roma)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Wash and chop the vine and roma tomatoes into roughly equal-sized pieces, about 1-inch chunks. Spread them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Chop the onion into medium-sized pieces and separate the pieces. Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes, onions, and garlic. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through. The tomatoes should be soft and slightly caramelized, with edges beginning to brown.
- Remove the roasted vegetables from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the roasted vegetables to a large pot. Add the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Roughly chop the fresh basil leaves, reserving a few whole leaves for garnish.
- Add most of the chopped basil to the pot, reserving some for garnish. Simmer the mixture for an additional 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Ladle the soup into serving bowls. Garnish with reserved fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or croutons for added texture.
Tips
- Choose the Best Tomatoes: Select ripe, vibrant vine and roma tomatoes for maximum flavor. Look for tomatoes that are firm but give slightly when gently pressed.
- Roasting is Key: Don't rush the roasting process. Those beautiful caramelized edges develop deep, complex flavors that make this soup extraordinary.
- Blending Technique: For the smoothest texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or carefully transfer to a blender in batches. Always blend in stages to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Fresh Basil Matters: Use fresh basil leaves for the most intense aromatic experience. Add some at the cooking stage and reserve some for garnish to maximize flavor and visual appeal.
- Customize Your Soup: Feel free to add a splash of cream for extra richness or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a crusty artisan bread or homemade croutons to complete this comforting meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
