Delicious Roasted Tomato Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, halved
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for creamier soup)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Tomatoes, Onion, and Garlic:
   • Place the halved tomatoes, quartered onion, and peeled garlic cloves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
   • Drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes, onion, and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
3. Roast the Vegetables:
   • Roast the tomatoes, onion, and garlic in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and starting to caramelize around the edges.
4. Blend the Roasted Vegetables:
   • Once the vegetables are roasted, transfer them to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, adding vegetable broth as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
5. Cook the Soup:
   • Pour the blended mixture into a large pot or Dutch oven. Stir in the remaining vegetable broth and chopped basil leaves.
   • Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed. You can also add more dried thyme or fresh basil for extra flavor.
7. Optional: Add Cream (for Creamier Soup):
   • If desired, stir in the heavy cream to add creaminess to the soup. Alternatively, you can omit the cream for a lighter version of the soup.
8. Serve:
   • Ladle the roasted tomato soup into bowls. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, if desired.
9. Enjoy:
   • Serve the delicious roasted tomato soup hot, alongside crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting and satisfying meal.

This homemade roasted tomato soup is bursting with flavor from the caramelized tomatoes, onion, and garlic, making it the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day. Enjoy its rich and comforting taste with your loved ones!

Nutrition facts for one serving of Roasted Tomato Soup (based on a recipe serving 4, without optional heavy cream):

• Calories: Approximately 120-140 calories per serving
• Total Fat: Approximately 7-9 grams
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 1-2 grams
• Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
• Sodium: Approximately 600-700 milligrams (varies depending on the amount of salt added)
• Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20 grams
• Dietary Fiber: Approximately 3-5 grams
• Total Sugars: Approximately 9-12 grams (naturally occurring sugars from tomatoes and onions)
• Protein: Approximately 2-4 grams

The benefits of enjoying Roasted Tomato Soup:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes are a great source of antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to various health benefits, including reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease.
2. Supports Immune Health: Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, which is known to boost the immune system and help the body fight off infections and illnesses.
3. Good Source of Vitamins and Minerals: Roasted tomato soup contains essential vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K, as well as minerals like potassium and folate, all of which are important for overall health and wellbeing.
4. Heart Health: The lycopene and potassium found in tomatoes have been associated with lower blood pressure levels and improved heart health. Consuming roasted tomato soup regularly as part of a balanced diet may help support cardiovascular health.
5. Weight Management: Roasted tomato soup is low in calories and fat, making it a satisfying and nutritious option for those looking to manage their weight. Its high water and fiber content can also help promote feelings of fullness and prevent overeating.
6. Digestive Health: The fiber content in roasted tomato soup supports digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. Additionally, the soup’s gentle warmth may help soothe the digestive system.
7. Hydration: Tomatoes have a high water content, which contributes to hydration and helps maintain fluid balance in the body. Consuming roasted tomato soup can help keep you hydrated, especially during hot weather or after exercise.
8. Versatile and Convenient: Roasted tomato soup is easy to prepare and can be made in large batches for meal prep. It can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with sandwiches, salads, or grilled cheese for a complete and satisfying meal.

Overall, roasted tomato soup offers a delicious and nutritious way to incorporate the health benefits of tomatoes into your diet. Its rich flavor, comforting warmth, and array of vitamins and minerals make it a nourishing choice for individuals of all ages.

FAQs About Roasted Tomato Soup

1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes for this recipe? Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh tomatoes are not available. Opt for canned whole tomatoes or diced tomatoes without added salt or seasonings for the best flavor.

2. Can I freeze leftover roasted tomato soup? Absolutely! Roasted tomato soup freezes well and can be stored in an airtight container or freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

3. Can I customize the seasoning in the soup? Certainly! Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the soup to suit your taste preferences. You can add herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor, or spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.

4. Is roasted tomato soup suitable for a vegetarian or vegan diet? Yes, roasted tomato soup is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting the optional heavy cream. It’s a satisfying and nutritious option for individuals following plant-based diets.

5. Can I use this soup as a base for other recipes? Absolutely! Roasted tomato soup can be used as a versatile base for other dishes such as pasta sauces, casseroles, or even as a flavor enhancer for rice or quinoa dishes. Get creative and experiment with different ways to incorporate this delicious soup into your meals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, roasted tomato soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that offers a multitude of health benefits and culinary possibilities. With its rich flavor, comforting warmth, and array of vitamins and minerals, it’s a nourishing option for individuals of all ages.

Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal, paired with a sandwich or salad, or used as a base for other recipes, roasted tomato soup provides a tasty and convenient way to incorporate the goodness of tomatoes into your diet. Its simplicity, versatility, and wholesome ingredients make it a beloved favorite among soup enthusiasts.

So go ahead, whip up a batch of homemade roasted tomato soup and treat yourself to a bowl of comforting goodness that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!