Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup – A Comforting Bowl of Flavor

A warm bowl of roasted garlic tomato soup has a way of turning an ordinary day into something wonderfully comforting. Aromas of caramelized tomatoes, sweet roasted garlic, and fresh herbs fill the kitchen as the ingredients slowly blend into a velvety, rich soup. Many home cooks love this recipe because it delivers gourmet results with simple, wholesome ingredients. Each spoonful carries a deep, roasted flavor that feels both rustic and refined. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for yourself, feeding your family, or looking for a nourishing meal to pair with a crisp grilled cheese, this soup fits effortlessly into any occasion.

Roasting the vegetables transforms their natural sweetness, allowing the tomatoes to take on a robust character while the garlic mellows into a buttery, aromatic companion. It’s a soup that tastes as if you’ve simmered it all day, even though it’s surprisingly simple to make. If you enjoy recipes that bring warmth, comfort, and bold flavor to the table, this roasted garlic tomato soup deserves a spot in your cooking routine.

Ingredients Needed

Below is a breakdown of ingredients along with approximate calorie counts per serving:

Ingredient	Quantity	Approx. Calories
Roma Tomatoes	10 medium	350 kcal
Garlic Bulbs	2 whole	90 kcal
Olive Oil	3 tbsp	360 kcal
Yellow Onion	1 medium	45 kcal
Vegetable Broth	3 cups	30 kcal
Fresh Basil Leaves	1 cup loosely packed	5 kcal
Salt	To taste	0 kcal
Black Pepper	To taste	5 kcal
Heavy Cream (optional)	¼ cup	100 kcal

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare and Roast the Vegetables

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Slice the tomatoes in half and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet.
3. Cut the tops off the garlic bulbs and drizzle them with a little olive oil. Wrap each bulb in foil and add them to the sheet pan.
4. Drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil, sprinkle salt and pepper, and roast for 35–40 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.

3. Blend the Soup Base

1. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins.
2. Add the roasted tomatoes, garlic, sautéed onion, and fresh basil to a blender.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and blend until smooth.
   You may need to work in batches depending on blender size.

4. Simmer the Soup

1. Pour the blended mixture back into the pot.
2. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes to deepen the flavors.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Stir in heavy cream if you want a richer, silkier soup.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with basil or a drizzle of cream, and enjoy the warm, comforting aroma.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Add spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño enhances heat.
• Make it creamy without dairy: Substitute coconut milk or cashew cream for heavy cream.
• Boost the vegetables: Add roasted carrots, bell peppers, or celery for added depth.
• Thicken the texture: Mix in a small handful of cooked rice or a slice of stale bread before blending.
• Enhance umami: A splash of balsamic vinegar or a spoonful of tomato paste brings more richness.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per Serving)

Based on 4 servings and excluding optional heavy cream.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~220
Protein	5g
Fat	14g
Carbohydrates	20g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	10g

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for an indulgent, nostalgic meal.
• Serve alongside garlic bread, toasted baguette slices, or herb-buttered croutons for extra crunch.
• Add a swirl of pesto, crème fraîche, or herb-infused olive oil for elevated flavor.
• Enjoy with a simple side salad featuring arugula, shaved parmesan, and balsamic dressing.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes! If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, canned whole or crushed tomatoes work well. Choose high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor, and reduce the roasting time since they’re already cooked.

2. How long does roasted garlic tomato soup last in the fridge?

The soup keeps well for 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors often deepen, making it even more delicious the next day.

3. Can this soup be frozen?

Absolutely. Freeze the soup (without cream added) for up to 3 months. Add cream after reheating to maintain a smooth texture.

4. How can I make the soup thicker?

For a thicker consistency, blend in a small piece of stale bread, a handful of cooked rice, or roast an extra tomato. Simmering a bit longer also naturally reduces and thickens the soup.

5. What can I use instead of vegetable broth?

Chicken broth is a great alternative and adds a savory depth. Water can work in a pinch—but add extra seasoning to enhance flavor.

Conclusion

Roasted garlic tomato soup brings together simplicity, warmth, and bold flavors in a way that feels both comforting and impressive. The roasting process transforms everyday ingredients into a vibrant, aromatic dish that stands beautifully on its own or pairs perfectly with your favorite sides. Once you’ve made this soup from scratch, it may quickly become a staple recipe in your kitchen—a go-to meal for chilly evenings, cozy gatherings, or any moment that calls for delicious homemade comfort.