Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup
Roasting the tomatoes first brings out their natural sweetness, creating a deeply flavorful base for this comforting and creamy soup. Packed with antioxidants, it's perfect for a cozy meal.
For 6 servings
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
On the prepared baking sheet, combine the halved or quartered Roma tomatoes, chopped yellow onion, and peeled garlic cloves. Drizzle generously with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, then sprinkle with dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything gently to ensure even coating.
Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened, slightly shriveled, and the edges of the onions and garlic are lightly caramelized. The natural sugars should be evident.
Carefully transfer the roasted vegetables and any accumulated juices from the baking sheet into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Pour in the vegetable broth.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
Remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup directly in the pot until it is completely smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender (fill only halfway, remove the center cap from the lid, and cover with a kitchen towel to allow steam to escape) and blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot.
Stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated. If using, add the optional 1/2 teaspoon of granulated sugar to help balance any acidity from the tomatoes.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Gently reheat the soup over low heat until warmed through, being careful not to boil after adding the cream.
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with fresh chopped basil and a final drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, if desired.
Serve immediately with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't overcrowd the baking sheet when roasting; this allows the vegetables to caramelize rather than steam, ensuring maximum flavor development and a richer soup base.
- 2For an extra-smooth soup, after blending, you can pass the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining tomato skins or seeds, though this is optional.
- 3When blending hot liquids in a regular blender, always fill the blender only halfway, remove the center cap from the lid (to allow steam to escape), and cover the lid with a kitchen towel to prevent splatters and ensure safety.
- 4If your tomatoes are particularly acidic, a small pinch of sugar added at the end can help balance the flavors without making the soup sweet, enhancing the overall taste.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan Option
Replace the heavy cream with an equal amount of full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Ensure your vegetable broth is also certified vegan.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the vegetables before roasting for a subtle warmth, or stir in a dash of your favorite hot sauce when serving for more heat.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary by adding a few sprigs to the baking sheet during roasting, or stir in a spoonful of basil pesto at the end for an extra layer of aromatic flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health and cancer prevention, which becomes more bioavailable when cooked.
Good Source of Vitamins
This soup provides a healthy dose of Vitamin C and Vitamin K from the tomatoes, supporting immune function, skin health, and bone health.
Fiber-Rich
The whole tomatoes and other vegetables contribute dietary fiber, aiding digestion, promoting a feeling of fullness, and helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if it's too thick.
