Roasted Cherry Tomato Soup: A Burst of Summer Flavor
There’s something magical about roasted tomatoes. The heat intensifies their sweetness, concentrates their flavors, and transforms them into a luscious, jammy delight. And when those roasted tomatoes are turned into a soup? Pure comfort in a bowl. This roasted cherry tomato soup recipe elevates the humble tomato to a culinary masterpiece. It’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a sophisticated lunch. Forget bland, watery tomato soup – this is a vibrant, flavorful experience you won’t soon forget. This recipe focuses on cherry tomatoes because their naturally high sugar content caramelizes beautifully during roasting, resulting in an intensely sweet and complex soup. But don’t let that stop you from incorporating other types of tomatoes as well!
## Why This Recipe Works
* **Intense Flavor:** Roasting concentrates the natural sweetness of the cherry tomatoes, creating a depth of flavor that simply can’t be achieved with raw or canned tomatoes.
* **Simple Ingredients:** You only need a handful of readily available ingredients to make this soup. The quality of the tomatoes is key, so choose the ripest, sweetest cherry tomatoes you can find.
* **Easy to Make:** Roasting is a hands-off process. Simply toss the ingredients on a sheet pan, roast, and blend. The soup practically makes itself!
* **Versatile:** This soup is delicious on its own, but it’s also a fantastic base for adding other vegetables, herbs, or proteins. Feel free to customize it to your liking.
* **Freezer-Friendly:** Make a big batch and freeze it for a quick and easy meal on a busy weeknight.
* **Naturally Gluten-Free and Vegan (Optional):** This recipe is naturally gluten-free. By using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, you can easily make it vegan.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Cherry Tomatoes:** The star of the show! Use the sweetest, ripest cherry tomatoes you can find. A mix of colors adds visual appeal.
* **Garlic:** Roasting garlic mellows its flavor and adds a subtle sweetness to the soup. Don’t skip it!
* **Onion:** Adds depth of flavor and sweetness. Yellow or white onions work well.
* **Olive Oil:** Coats the vegetables and helps them roast evenly. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
* **Fresh Basil:** Adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes. You can also use other herbs like thyme or oregano.
* **Vegetable or Chicken Broth:** Provides the liquid base for the soup. Use vegetable broth for a vegan option.
* **Balsamic Vinegar (Optional):** A touch of balsamic vinegar adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes. Use sparingly.
* **Sugar (Optional):** If your tomatoes aren’t very sweet, a pinch of sugar can help enhance their flavor. Taste the soup before adding any sugar.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Don’t be afraid to season generously, as roasting can mellow the flavors.
* **Red Pepper Flakes (Optional):** For a touch of heat.
* **Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk (Optional):** To add richness and creaminess. Use coconut milk for a vegan option.
## Equipment You’ll Need
* **Large Baking Sheet:** To roast the vegetables.
* **Parchment Paper (Optional):** To prevent the vegetables from sticking to the baking sheet.
* **High-Speed Blender or Immersion Blender:** To blend the soup until smooth.
* **Large Pot or Dutch Oven:** To heat the soup after blending.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a detailed guide to making the most flavorful roasted cherry tomato soup:
**Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables**
* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
* Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes. There’s no need to cut them unless they are very large; you can halve those. Aim for roughly the same size pieces for even roasting.
* Peel and roughly chop the onion. You don’t need to be precise; they’ll be blended later.
* Peel the garlic cloves. Leave them whole or roughly chop them.
**Step 2: Roast the Vegetables**
* Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup (optional but recommended).
* Spread the cherry tomatoes, chopped onion, and garlic cloves in a single layer on the baking sheet.
* Drizzle generously with olive oil. Make sure all the vegetables are lightly coated.
* Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
* Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized. The skins should be blistered and the tomatoes should be bursting with juice.
**Step 3: Blend the Soup**
* Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the roasted vegetables cool slightly for a few minutes. This prevents splattering when blending.
* Transfer the roasted vegetables to a high-speed blender or use an immersion blender. If using a regular blender, work in batches to avoid overflowing.
* Add the fresh basil leaves to the blender.
* Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Start with about 4 cups and add more as needed to reach your desired consistency.
* Blend until smooth and creamy. Be careful when blending hot liquids; vent the blender lid to prevent pressure buildup. If using an immersion blender, blend directly in the pot.
**Step 4: Simmer and Season**
* Pour the blended soup into a large pot or Dutch oven.
* Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
* Stir in the balsamic vinegar (if using).
* Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are not sweet enough.
* If desired, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier soup.
* Simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
**Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
* Ladle the soup into bowls.
* Garnish with a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of fresh basil, croutons, or a dollop of pesto (optional).
* Serve hot and enjoy!
## Tips for the Best Roasted Cherry Tomato Soup
* **Use the Best Tomatoes:** The quality of your tomatoes will directly impact the flavor of your soup. Choose ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes for the best results. Heirloom cherry tomatoes are particularly flavorful.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet:** Overcrowding the baking sheet will steam the tomatoes instead of roasting them. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
* **Roast Until Caramelized:** Roasting the tomatoes until they are slightly caramelized is key to developing their sweet, complex flavor. Don’t be afraid to let them get a little browned.
* **Taste and Adjust Seasoning:** The sweetness of the tomatoes can vary depending on the variety and season. Taste the soup after blending and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
* **Use Fresh Herbs:** Fresh herbs add a bright, vibrant flavor to the soup. Basil is a classic choice, but you can also use thyme, oregano, or rosemary.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** This recipe is a great starting point for experimenting with different flavors. Try adding other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the roasting pan. You can also add spices like smoked paprika or cumin for a smoky flavor.
* **Make It Creamy (Optional):** If you prefer a creamy soup, stir in heavy cream, coconut milk, or cashew cream after blending. You can also add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to each bowl before serving.
## Variations and Additions
This roasted cherry tomato soup recipe is delicious as is, but it’s also a great base for experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. Here are a few ideas:
* **Spicy Tomato Soup:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the roasting pan or a dash of hot sauce to the blended soup.
* **Smoked Paprika Tomato Soup:** Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the roasting pan for a smoky flavor.
* **Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons:** Cut grilled cheese sandwiches into small squares and use them as croutons.
* **Creamy Tomato Soup with Pesto:** Swirl a dollop of pesto into each bowl of soup before serving.
* **Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup:** Add roasted red peppers to the roasting pan for a sweet and smoky flavor.
* **Tomato Soup with White Beans:** Add a can of drained and rinsed white beans to the soup after blending for a heartier meal.
* **Curried Tomato Soup:** Add 1 teaspoon of curry powder to the roasting pan for a warm and aromatic flavor.
* **Tomato and Zucchini Soup:** Add chopped zucchini to the roasting pan for a healthy and flavorful soup.
* **Vegan Roasted Tomato Soup:** Ensure you use vegetable broth and coconut milk instead of chicken broth and heavy cream.
## Serving Suggestions
Roasted cherry tomato soup is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:
* **As a Starter:** Serve a small bowl of soup as a starter for a larger meal.
* **As a Main Course:** Serve a larger bowl of soup as a main course, accompanied by a side salad or crusty bread.
* **With Grilled Cheese:** A classic combination! Serve the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting and satisfying meal.
* **With Croutons:** Top the soup with homemade or store-bought croutons for added texture.
* **With Pesto:** Swirl a dollop of pesto into each bowl of soup for a burst of flavor.
* **With a Garnish:** Garnish the soup with a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil for added visual appeal.
* **Cold Tomato Soup (Gazpacho Style):** Chill the soup completely and serve cold for a refreshing summer meal. This is essentially a simplified gazpacho without all the extra raw vegetables.
## Storage Instructions
* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Freezer:** Store leftover soup in an airtight container or freezer bag in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
## Reheating Instructions
* **Stovetop:** Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
* **Microwave:** Reheat the soup in a microwave-safe bowl in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
*Note: Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.*
Per serving (approximate):
* Calories: 150-250
* Fat: 10-15g
* Saturated Fat: 3-5g
* Cholesterol: 10-20mg
* Sodium: 300-500mg
* Carbohydrates: 15-25g
* Fiber: 3-5g
* Sugar: 10-15g
* Protein: 2-4g
This roasted cherry tomato soup is a delightful way to capture the essence of summer’s bounty. Its simple preparation and vibrant flavors make it a welcome addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or an elegant starter for a special occasion, this soup is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of roasted cherry tomatoes!
## Recipe Card
**Roasted Cherry Tomato Soup**
A simple and flavorful soup made with roasted cherry tomatoes, garlic, and basil.
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 40 minutes
**Total Time:** 55 minutes
**Servings:** 4-6
**Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds cherry tomatoes
* 4 cloves garlic, whole or roughly chopped
* 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
* 4-6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
* 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
* Pinch of sugar (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Red pepper flakes (optional)
* Heavy cream or coconut milk (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spread cherry tomatoes, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (optional).
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized.
5. Let cool slightly, then transfer to a blender with basil leaves and 4 cups of broth.
6. Blend until smooth, adding more broth as needed to reach desired consistency.
7. Pour into a pot and simmer over medium heat.
8. Stir in balsamic vinegar (if using) and adjust seasoning.
9. If desired, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk.
10. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
11. Serve hot, garnished with a swirl of cream, fresh basil, croutons, or pesto (optional).
**Enjoy!**