Rich Tomato Basil Soup

Featured in: Vegetarian and Vegan

This flavorful soup starts with roasted tomatoes and garlic, bringing out natural sweetness. Caramelized onions add richness, basil gives it a classic touch, and you’ve got options to keep it creamy with heavy cream, milk, or plant-based milk. Forget the canned stuff—this homemade version is on another level that’s satisfying and unforgettable.
punchofyummy
Updated on Tue, 18 Mar 2025 18:26:19 GMT
A steaming bowl of tomato soup topped with fresh basil and olive oil. Sliced bread and cherry tomatoes complete the side. Pin it
A steaming bowl of tomato soup topped with fresh basil and olive oil. Sliced bread and cherry tomatoes complete the side. | pinchofyummy.com

I stumbled upon the wonder of oven-roasted tomato soup while trying to match what they make at my local coffee shop. These days my version with its sweet roasted tomatoes, soft golden onions and garden-fresh basil tastes way better. Just a few good things, a bit of time, and you've got a bowl of true comfort.

Natural Deliciousness

This soup stands out because it lets each ingredient do its thing. The roasting pulls all the sweetness from tomatoes while the onions and garlic create incredible flavor layers. You won't need any cream at all, just honest tasty stuff. It's the perfect answer when tomato plants give you more than you can handle.

Your Shopping List

  • Ripe Tomatoes: Get the juiciest ones available.
  • Vidalia Onions: They turn wonderfully sweet.
  • Garlic: Entire bulbs become mellow when roasted.
  • Basil Leaves: Don't skimp, they bring everything together.
  • Olive Oil: Grab something nice, you'll notice the difference.
  • Veggie Broth: Keeps things bright and balanced.
  • Spices: Some salt, black pepper, maybe a dash of chili flakes.

Let's Make Soup

  1. Roast With Love
    Get those tomatoes, garlic and onions until they're deeply golden.
  2. Blend It Up
    Mix everything smooth and pour in broth until just right.
  3. Fresh Finish
    Mix the basil in just before serving.
  4. Make It Yours
    Give it a try, tweak it, maybe pour in some cream if that's your style.

Make It Perfect

Go for super ripe tomatoes as they're the star of the show. Put them in a single layer for roasting so they all brown nicely. Don't rush the onions, they need proper time. Blend thoroughly for the smoothest result, and add some cream if you want it fancy.

Keep It Fresh

Stays good for 4 to 5 days when kept cold. You can freeze it up to 3 months and warm it slowly later. Don't let it boil or you'll lose all those amazing fresh flavors.

A bowl of vibrant tomato soup garnished with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil, accompanied by cherry tomatoes and bread in the background. Pin it
A bowl of vibrant tomato soup garnished with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil, accompanied by cherry tomatoes and bread in the background. | pinchofyummy.com

Perfect Partners

A toasty cheese sandwich goes amazingly well. Some buttery garlic bread or fancy crackers help scoop up every bit. Want something lighter? A crisp green salad fits right in too.

Mix It Up

Need some kick? Toss in chili flakes. Want more richness? Drop in a spoonful of pesto. Love cheesy stuff? Sprinkle parmesan on top. Looking for more veggies? Throw in some roasted bell peppers or carrots to make it your creation.

Pure Magic

Basic ingredients often create the tastiest dishes. The roasting brings out natural sweetness, those slow-cooked onions add wonderful flavor, and the fresh basil ties everything together. It's great for quiet evenings at home or when friends come over.

Always Perfect

Works as a fast midday meal or the first course at a dinner party. A loaf of crusty bread makes it casual enough for everyday meals but it still feels special when company comes. Tastes good year-round but turns amazing with summer-fresh tomatoes.

A bowl of rich tomato soup garnished with fresh basil leaves, sliced cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil. Pin it
A bowl of rich tomato soup garnished with fresh basil leaves, sliced cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil. | pinchofyummy.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Do I need to remove seeds?
You can skip straining. If you prefer no seeds, a fine strainer helps—but it’s tasty either way.
→ How long can I store it?
It’ll stay good in the fridge for about 4-5 days. In the freezer, you can keep it for 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge before reheating.
→ How can I make it creamy?
To keep it vegan, use some coconut milk. Otherwise, go for dairy cream, milk, or throw in butter or parmesan for that cozy richness.
→ Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Roma or plum varieties are winners. Their thicker texture and balanced flavor shine when roasted.
→ What’s the reason for caramelizing onions?
This step unlocks their natural sweetness, making the soup smoother and cutting the sharpness of the tomatoes.

Roasted Tomato Basil

Bold and rich soup starring roasted tomatoes and caramelized onions with fresh basil. Add cream or skip dairy—it’s your call.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
70 Minutes
Total Time
85 Minutes
By: Amelia


Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings (4 servings)

Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 3 pounds of halved Roma or plum tomatoes.
02 8 peeled garlic cloves.
03 3.5 tablespoons of olive oil, split up.
04 2 yellow onions, sliced thin.
05 Half a cup of fresh basil.
06 Half a teaspoon of oregano, dried.
07 1-2 cups of veggie broth.
08 Salt and pepper, adjust to taste.

Instructions

Step 01

Toss tomatoes and garlic with oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and bake at 400°F for 40 to 45 minutes.

Step 02

Over medium heat, stir onions in oil now and then until they turn a rich golden color, about 20 minutes.

Step 03

Puree the roasted tomatoes, garlic, basil, and onions together until creamy and smooth.

Step 04

Simmer with oregano and broth for 10 minutes. Toss in some cream, milk, cheese, or butter if you want.

Notes

  1. Use coconut milk to keep it vegan.
  2. Optional to strain out seeds.
  3. Can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking tray.
  • Big pot.
  • Blender or food processor.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 214
  • Total Fat: 13.6 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 21.3 g
  • Protein: 3.1 g