Roasted Garlic and Tomato Basil (Printable)
Velvety smooth soup blending roasted garlic, sweet tomatoes and fresh basil for comforting warmth.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
03 - 1 head garlic, top sliced off
04 - 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped
05 - 1 celery stalk, chopped
→ Pantry
06 - 2 tbsp olive oil
07 - 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
08 - 1 tbsp tomato paste
09 - 1 tsp sugar
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Herbs
11 - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
12 - 1 tsp dried oregano
→ Dairy (optional)
13 - 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F.
02 - Arrange the tomatoes cut side up, onion, carrot, and celery on a large baking sheet. Place the head of garlic cut side up on the sheet. Drizzle all vegetables and garlic with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
03 - Roast for 35 to 40 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and caramelized and the garlic is golden and fragrant.
04 - Let the garlic cool slightly, then squeeze the roasted cloves from their skins.
05 - In a large pot over medium heat, add the roasted vegetables, squeezed garlic, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
06 - Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
07 - Add basil leaves and oregano if using. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth, or carefully blend in batches in a countertop blender.
08 - Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and sugar if needed. For a creamier soup, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half.
09 - Serve hot, garnished with extra basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It is surprisingly simple to make but tastes like it simmered all day long.
- The roasting process draws out natural sugars you just cannot get from sautéing alone.
02 -
- Do not rush the roasting step because those charred edges add essential flavor.
- Let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid a hot mess.
03 -
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives it a subtle background warmth.
- A Parmesan rind simmered in the broth adds umami depth that is hard to replicate.