Name: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 large onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus more for garnish); 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to taste); 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roast Tomatoes: Arrange tomato halves on the baking sheet, cut side up. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Roast for 40-45 minutes until soft and caramelized.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Add Roasted Tomatoes: Add roasted tomatoes and juices to the pot. Stir in broth and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Blend Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth or transfer in batches to a blender.
Finish Soup: Stir in butter and sugar (if using). Add heavy cream for a creamy texture, if desired. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh basil, and serve warm with crusty bread.

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes (preferably whole or diced) and use about 2-3 cans (14.5 oz each) in place of the fresh tomatoes. Skip the roasting step and proceed with sautéing the onions and garlic, then add the canned tomatoes and broth.

How can I make this soup vegan?

To make the Roasted Tomato Basil Soup vegan, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the butter. For a creamier texture, use a plant-based milk or cream alternative such as coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream.

Can I prepare this soup in advance for a party?

Absolutely! You can prepare the soup up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove before serving. If making it further in advance, freeze it in portions and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the soup?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted by modifying the amount of red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder soup, either reduce the quantity or omit them entirely. For extra heat, you can add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to taste.