creamy roasted garlic tomato soup
Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup
Isn’t it a coincidence that the simplest ingredients can create such a comforting dish as Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup? You might find that the combination of roasted tomatoes and garlic not only tantalizes your taste buds but also warms your soul. By understanding the history and preparation of this classic soup, you can elevate your culinary skills while enjoying its numerous health benefits. The best part? There’s a unique twist to this recipe that could surprise you, making it a worthy addition to your meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When you plunge into this creamy roasted garlic tomato soup, you’ll instantly appreciate its rich and robust flavors. This recipe not only tastes amazing but also packs a nutritional punch. Tomatoes and garlic are rich in antioxidants, boosting your immune system and promoting heart health. Plus, it’s high in vitamins C and A, making it nutrient-dense. Roasted tomatoes are also known for their ability to increase lycopene absorption, which is a powerful antioxidant linked to cancer protection.
The versatility of this soup allows you to customize it to your liking, whether you want it vegan or gluten-free. Roasting tomatoes enhances their sweetness and flavor, while blending creates a smooth texture. You can easily freeze leftovers for a quick meal later. With simple preparation techniques, you’ll find this soup is as delightful to make as it’s to enjoy.
History
Tomato soup’s history is a fascinating journey that showcases its evolution from humble beginnings to a beloved staple.
Its roots trace back to the late 19th century, when canned tomatoes became widely available, allowing families to create warm, nutritious meals easily. In 1897, Joseph Campbell revolutionized the dish by introducing condensed tomato soup, making it affordable for many households across America. This accessibility helped tomato soup gain popularity, becoming a staple in American diets. Over time, it evolved into various forms, including creamy bisques and spicy versions. Pairing it with grilled cheese sandwiches in the mid-20th century solidified its status as a comfort food. Today, tomato soup remains cherished worldwide, reflecting changing tastes and culinary trends. The addition of roasted garlic in modern recipes has further enhanced its flavor profile, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts.
Recipe
Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup Recipe
This creamy roasted garlic tomato soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any season. The combination of sweet, roasted tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and the savory depth from onions creates a delightful flavor profile. The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, while the garlic adds a rich, buttery taste. This soup is also an ideal way to utilize excess ripe tomatoes from your garden.
Finished with a splash of cream, this soup becomes luxuriously smooth, making it a favorite for both family dinners and entertaining guests. To make the soup even more special, consider pairing it with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of crumbled feta or Parmesan cheese on top.
Serve it alongside a crispy grilled cheese sandwich or crunchy croutons for a complete meal that warms the soul. This recipe isn’t only simple to make but also allows for plenty of customization, so feel free to adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- Roma tomatoes (or other ripe tomatoes)
- White or yellow onion, chopped or sliced
- Whole head of garlic, smashed or halved crosswise
- Olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Red pepper flakes
- Optional smoked paprika
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Heavy cream or half-and-half for creaminess
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Crumbled feta or Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Place the tomatoes, onion, and garlic on the baking sheet. Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes are very soft and the garlic is tender. Once done, allow the vegetables to cool slightly before handling.
- If desired, peel the tomatoes and squeeze the roasted garlic out of its skins. Transfer the roasted vegetables to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
- In a large pot over medium heat, heat the blended mixture, stirring occasionally. Gradually add the broth and simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the soup to thicken.
- Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and optional honey to balance flavors.
For an even more flavorful soup, remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, especially after adding the broth and cream. If you prefer a spicier kick, don’t hesitate to add more red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika.
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, and the flavors will deepen over time, making reheating just as delicious!
Final Thoughts
As you savor each spoonful of creamy roasted garlic tomato soup, you might reflect on its delightful balance of flavors and health benefits. This soup isn’t just delicious; it’s nutritious too.
With about 160 calories per serving, it provides a good source of antioxidants like lycopene, which can support heart health. Roasting tomatoes enhances nutrient absorption, making your meal even healthier. Additionally, its high fat content can contribute to overall energy levels, keeping you satisfied.
You can easily adapt the recipe to be dairy-free or vegan, ensuring it fits various dietary needs. Plus, it freezes well, so you can enjoy it later.
Whether served with a grilled cheese or garnished with fresh basil, this soup offers versatility and comfort in every bowl. Enjoy making it a staple in your kitchen!
FAQ
You might’ve some questions about preparing this creamy roasted garlic tomato soup, and that’s perfectly normal!
For the best flavor, choose a mix of tomatoes like Roma and grape, using about 3.5 to 5 lbs. Quarter or chop them before roasting, and you can leave the skins on for extra texture.
Roast your ingredients at 425°F for 30-40 minutes, seasoning with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend the roasted mix until smooth, then simmer to thicken. Remember that roasting enhances flavor, so don’t skip that important step of roasting ingredients.
Add heavy cream for creaminess, adjusting thickness with flour if needed. Garnish with fresh basil or Parmesan, and serve with grilled cheese.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 6 months.
Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup
Ingredients
- Ingredients
- Roma tomatoes or other ripe tomatoes
- White or yellow onion chopped or sliced
- Whole head of garlic smashed or halved crosswise
- Olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Red pepper flakes
- Optional smoked paprika
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Heavy cream or half-and-half for creaminess
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Crumbled feta or Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Place the tomatoes, onion, and garlic on the baking sheet. Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes are very soft and the garlic is tender. Once done, allow the vegetables to cool slightly before handling.
- If desired, peel the tomatoes and squeeze the roasted garlic out of its skins. Transfer the roasted vegetables to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
- In a large pot over medium heat, heat the blended mixture, stirring occasionally. Gradually add the broth and simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the soup to thicken.
- Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and optional honey to balance flavors.
- For an even more flavorful soup, remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, especially after adding the broth and cream. If you prefer a spicier kick, don't hesitate to add more red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, and the flavors will deepen over time, making reheating just as delicious!
