Name: Roasted Tomato Soup: Easy Comfort Food with Turkey Bacon Upgrade
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 3.5 pounds ripe tomatoes (any small- to medium-sized tomatoes will do); 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided); fine sea salt; freshly-cracked black pepper; 1 large white or yellow onion (diced); 5 cloves garlic (minced); 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 2.5 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (loosely-packed); freshly-grated Parmesan; heavy cream (drizzle); olive oil (drizzle); croutons; sour cream; fresh basil

Introduction to Roasted Tomato Soup

Roasted tomato soup is one of those dishes that blends nostalgia with convenience, making it an ideal choice for young professionals juggling busy schedules. It’s both satisfying and soulful, perfect for those evenings when all you want is something warm and comforting. This soup embodies the essence of home-cooked meals, yet it's incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time unwinding after a long day at work.

Beyond its straightforward preparation, roasted tomato soup is also a canvas for creativity. With a few fresh herbs like basil or a drizzle of olive oil on top, you can elevate a simple recipe into a delightful dining experience. Have you ever wondered about the health benefits of tomatoes? They're packed with vitamins C and K, and the roasting process intensifies their natural sweetness — talk about a win-win!

This soup isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it's also an excellent way to incorporate seasonal produce into your diet. Next time you find yourself craving comfort food, let roasted tomato soup warm you up and brighten your evening. You’ll find that it’s not just a meal; it’s a little slice of happiness in a bowl.

Why Roasted Tomato Soup is a Comforting Choice for Young Professionals

For busy young professionals, roasted tomato soup checks all the right boxes. It’s quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can easily be stored for leftovers. You can whip it up on a Sunday and warm it throughout the week. Plus, the rich flavors make it satisfying enough to serve for a casual dinner with friends or simply enjoy alone on a quiet night in.

Imagine coming home after a hectic day and warming up a bowl of this nutritious soup. It’s like a warm hug for your stomach! With the option to customize toppings — from crispy croutons to a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese — this dish is as versatile as it is comforting. And if you haven't yet tried making it, now's the perfect time to gather those ripe tomatoes and delight in a wholesome, delicious experience.

Ingredients for Roasted Tomato Soup

Creating the perfect roasted tomato soup starts with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a list to get you started:

3 ½ pounds ripe tomatoes - Opt for small- to medium-sized varieties, as they provide a rich flavor when roasted.
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided - This adds depth and healthy fats to your soup.
Fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper - Essential for enhancing all the flavors, don’t skimp on them!
1 large white or yellow onion, diced - Onions bring a lovely sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
5 cloves garlic, minced - Garlic gives the soup a savory kick.
¾ teaspoon smoked paprika - For that warm, smoky undertone.
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes - A hint of heat to make things interesting.
2 ½ cups vegetable broth - Use homemade or store-bought for convenience and richness.
½ cup loosely-packed fresh basil leaves - Fresh basil brightens the flavor beautifully, making the soup feel alive.
Optional toppings: Consider some freshly-grated Parmesan, a drizzle of heavy cream or olive oil, croutons, sour cream, or even more fresh basil for garnishing.

Gather these ingredients, and you're already on your way to a delightful culinary experience. Happy cooking!

Preparing Roasted Tomato Soup

Crafting a warm and comforting bowl of roasted tomato soup is a delightful journey that anyone can master! With fresh tomatoes and aromatic ingredients, this soup is sure to impress. Let me walk you through each step to make the process as simple and enjoyable as possible!

Roast the tomatoes

The first step is all about bringing out the natural sweetness of our star ingredient: the tomatoes! Preheat your oven to 450°F. Take around 3 ½ pounds of ripe tomatoes and quarter them (or halve them if they're smaller). Place them on a baking sheet, cut-side-up, and give them a drizzle of 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle a few pinches of fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper over the top. Roasting takes about 30 to 40 minutes until the tomatoes are softened and starting to caramelize. This is where the magic happens—watch for that gorgeous color and aroma!

Sauté the onion and garlic

While your tomatoes roast, it’s time to prepare some aromatic goodness. In a large stockpot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss in a diced large white or yellow onion and sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn translucent. Next, add 5 minced cloves of garlic, ¾ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully. The aroma will get you excited for what's to come!

Combine ingredients in the pot

Once your tomatoes are roasted to perfection, carefully add them to the pot along with their flavorful juices. Then, pour in 2 ½ cups of vegetable broth and toss in about ½ cup of loosely-packed fresh basil leaves. Stir everything together, letting the warmth and scents envelop you. It’s starting to look like a delicious pot of roasted tomato soup!

Purée the soup

Now comes the fun part! Using a handheld immersion blender or a traditional blender (instructions for that can be found here), purée the soup until you reach your desired texture. Some prefer it silky smooth, while others enjoy a bit of chunkiness for extra rustic charm. Whichever you choose, just take a moment to admire the vibrant color of your creation!

Taste and season to perfection

Finally, it’s time to taste your delightful soup. This is where you can get creative! Add extra salt, pepper, or even a pinch more of smoked paprika if you like a bit more depth. Remember, seasoning is key!

Serve warm—perhaps garnished with freshly-grated Parmesan, a drizzle of heavy cream, or a few croutons for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your cozy bowl of roasted tomato soup along with your favorite crusty bread, and settle in for a moment of culinary bliss!

Variations on Roasted Tomato Soup

Herb-infused variations

To elevate your roasted tomato soup, experiment with various herbs. Basil and thyme work wonderfully together, but don't shy away from combining rosemary or oregano for an aromatic twist. A hint of mint can also impart a refreshing note—perfect for summer days. Simply chop your chosen herbs and add them to the soup during the simmering stage or use them as a garnish before serving.

Spicy roasted tomato soup

If you're in the mood for a kick, consider transforming your classic roasted tomato soup into a spicy delight! Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños when sautéing your onions and garlic. For an extra punch, you can also incorporate a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper before blending. Just imagine curling up with a warm bowl that packs a flavorful punch!

Cooking Tips for Roasted Tomato Soup

Creating the perfect roasted tomato soup is easier than you might think! Here are some handy tips to elevate your dish:

Choose Quality Tomatoes: When selecting tomatoes, opt for ripe and fragrant ones. Varieties like heirloom or vine-ripened will add depth to your soup.
Don’t Skip the Roasting: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of tomatoes. The caramelization enhances the flavors, so take your time in the oven.
Adjust the Texture: If you prefer a chunkier soup, pulse the mixture a few times with your immersion blender instead of puréeing it completely.

Experiment with various spices like oregano or thyme for added complexity. You can also customize the consistency with extra broth or by blending longer. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Roasted Tomato Soup

Serving your roasted tomato soup can elevate its delicious flavors and make for a comforting meal. Consider these delightful suggestions to enhance your experience:

Top It Off: Add a sprinkle of freshly-grated Parmesan or a drizzle of heavy cream to provide richness. A few drops of high-quality olive oil can intensify the flavors beautifully.
Crunch Factor: Serve with homemade croutons for a delightful crunch. You can also use toasted bread or crostini on the side.
Herb Freshness: Garnish with fresh basil for a fragrant touch; the combination with roasted tomatoes sings of summer freshness.
Protein Pairing: For a heartier meal, consider adding chicken ham or crispy turkey bacon as toppings.

Experiment with these suggestions to find your favorite combination, and enjoy this bowl of warmth!

Time breakdown for Roasted Tomato Soup

Preparation time

The prep work for your roasted tomato soup is quick and easy, taking about 10-15 minutes. Just chop your ingredients, and you’re good to go.

Cooking time

Once everything is in the pot and the oven, you’ll need around 40-50 minutes for cooking. This includes roasting the tomatoes and simmering the soup to perfection.

Total time

In total, plan for about 1 hour to enjoy a delicious bowl of roasted tomato soup. This means you can have a comforting meal ready for yourself or friends in no time!

Nutritional Facts for Roasted Tomato Soup

Calories
A serving of roasted tomato soup typically contains about 120 calories. It's a light yet satisfying option to warm you up and keep you energized!

Protein
With around 3 grams of protein per serving, this soup isn't just a comfort food; it's also a source of nutrients that can complement a balanced meal.

Sodium
The sodium content is approximately 600 mg per serving, depending on the vegetable broth used. For those watching their sodium intake, consider opting for a low-sodium broth to keep it heart-healthy.

FAQs about Roasted Tomato Soup

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Canned tomatoes are a fantastic alternative, especially when fresh ones aren't in season. Opt for whole or crushed canned tomatoes for a rich flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as canned tomatoes are already cooked. Your roasted tomato soup will still turn out delicious!

How can I make the soup creamier?

To achieve a velvety texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of coconut cream right after blending. Alternatively, blending in some cooked potatoes can also give your soup that comforting creaminess without altering the flavor significantly.

What are some good toppings for roasted tomato soup?

Toppings can elevate your roasted tomato soup experience! Try freshly grated Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of croutons for crunch. Fresh basil or a spoonful of sour cream also adds a nice touch. Experiment with your favorites to find the perfect combination!

Conclusion on Roasted Tomato Soup

Roasted tomato soup is not just a meal; it's an experience that warms the soul. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite toppings like fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil to elevate each bowl.