I can't get enough of this Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup. The way those tomatoes and garlic roast together creating deep sweet flavors just makes my kitchen smell amazing. It's become my go-to comfort meal especially with a gooey grilled cheese on the side.
Why We Love This One
The balance of roasted flavors and silky smooth texture makes this soup something special. My kids gobble it up and it's fancy enough for company too. I love that it works for everyone whether they're vegan or not.
What You'll Need
- Tomatoes: Mix big ones and sweet cherries about 3-4 pounds total.
- Garlic: Two whole bulbs they get sweet when roasted.
- Onion: One medium diced up small.
- Olive Oil: Two tablespoons good quality.
- Veggie Stock: Four cups homemade if you have it.
- Heavy Cream: One cup coconut cream works too.
- Tomato Paste: Two tablespoons for richness.
- Fresh Herbs: Thyme basil salt and pepper.
Let's Make It Together
- Start With Roasting
- Heat your oven to 400°F. Cut those tomatoes pop them on a sheet with garlic drizzle with oil and seasonings. Roast until they're all caramelized about 30 minutes.
- Get The Base Going
- Cook your onions in olive oil until they're soft and sweet.
- Combine Everything
- Add those gorgeous roasted tomatoes squeeze that golden garlic right in.
- Build The Soup
- Pour in your stock paste and herbs. Let it all simmer then blend until silky smooth.
- Make It Creamy
- Stir in your cream warm it gently taste and adjust the seasonings.
- Ready To Serve
- Top with fresh herbs maybe some croutons drizzle with olive oil.
My Best Tips
Pick the ripest tomatoes you can find they'll give you the sweetest flavor. That high heat roasting makes everything caramelize beautifully. Blend until it's perfectly smooth and if your tomatoes are too tart a tiny pinch of sugar works wonders.
Keep It Fresh
This soup stays good in the fridge for four days. Want to freeze some? It keeps for three months just warm it gently when you're ready and add a splash of stock if needed.
Make It Vegan
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream it works beautifully. Try it with vegan grilled cheese or some crispy roasted chickpeas on top makes such a satisfying meal.
Perfect Partners
Nothing beats dunking crusty bread or a grilled cheese in this soup. Sometimes I serve it with roasted broccolini or crispy sage leaves. A simple green salad on the side makes it feel complete.
Make It Your Own
Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or some smoky paprika. Fresh herbs are lovely and toppings like crispy chickpeas feta or bacon add such nice texture.
Why Roasting Matters
That roasting step might take a little time but it's worth every minute. It brings out such sweetness in the tomatoes and turns garlic into golden magic making your soup taste like it came from a fancy restaurant.
Secret Ingredient
That tomato paste does something special deepening all the flavors and giving the soup such beautiful color. Makes everything taste like it's been simmering all day.
Top It Off
I love finishing each bowl with fresh basil good olive oil maybe a swirl of cream. Homemade croutons Parmesan shavings or crispy onions add such nice crunch.
Plan Ahead
Make this on the weekend and you'll have comfort ready whenever you need it. The flavors actually get better after a day or two in the fridge.
Share The Love
This soup always impresses whether I'm serving it as a starter or the main event. Something about its rich color and velvety texture just makes people happy.
Kid Approved
Even my picky eaters love this soup especially with fun dippers like grilled cheese strips or breadsticks. Such a nice way to get more veggies into their day.
Winter's Best Friend
There's something about this soup that makes cold days better. Its warmth and richness just comfort you from the inside out perfect after a long chilly day.
Spice It Up
Sometimes I add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. That bit of heat with the creamy soup creates something really special.
Dairy Free Options
Try cashew cream or almond milk if you're skipping dairy. They make the soup just as creamy and everyone can enjoy it.
Wine Pairings
A glass of Pinot Noir or crisp Sauvignon Blanc goes so nicely with this soup. The wine brings out all those roasted flavors making dinner feel extra special.
Extra Veggies
Sometimes I roast red peppers zucchini or carrots along with the tomatoes. They blend right in adding even more nutrition and flavor to every bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I make this soup vegan?
- Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream or milk. Use refrigerated coconut milk for extra thickness, and choose dairy-free cheese for the optional grilled cheese.
- → How long can I store this soup?
- Keep in the fridge for 2-3 days or freeze for 4-6 months. Thaw overnight before reheating on the stovetop.
- → What's in the all-purpose blend?
- Mix 1 teaspoon each of sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, and dried parsley for the homemade blend.
- → Can I use different tomatoes?
- Any ripe, fresh tomatoes work well. Just make sure they're ripe for the best flavor when roasting.
- → Why roast the garlic first?
- Roasting garlic creates a mellow, sweet flavor that adds depth to the soup without harsh raw garlic taste.