Roasted Garlic and Tomato Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings out the natural sweetness of tomatoes and the rich, mellow flavor of roasted garlic. This soup is perfect for chilly days or as a light meal, especially when served with a slice of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich. Roasting the tomatoes and garlic deepens their flavors, adding a smoky and savory element to the soup. It’s simple to prepare yet packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome and satisfying option for any time of year.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved
- 1 whole head of garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tsp dried basil (or 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped)
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for added richness)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional, for a creamier texture)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the halved tomatoes on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cut the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and place it on the baking sheet with the tomatoes.
- Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized, and the garlic is tender and fragrant.
- In a large pot, heat a little more olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and add them to the pot, along with the roasted tomatoes, basil, vegetable broth, and tomato paste (if using). Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer it to a blender in batches.
- Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk if desired, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
This Roasted Garlic and Tomato Soup is warm, rich, and perfect for savoring the simple, delicious flavors of roasted vegetables!