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Few things are as comforting as a bowl of freshly made tomato soup. Bright, tangy tomatoes blended with sweet roasted garlic create a velvety base that warms the soul. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly night or looking for a quick lunch upgrade, this Garden-Fresh Tomato Soup with Roasted Garlic Bliss will fill your kitchen with the scent of herbs and make everyone’s taste buds sing.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 head of garlic, top sliced off for roasting
- 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped (fresh or canned)
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Handful of fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
Instructions
Begin by roasting the garlic. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the head of garlic on a small piece of foil, drizzle with a teaspoon of olive oil, and wrap it up into a tight little package. Roast for about 30 minutes, until the cloves are golden and buttery-soft. Once done, let it cool slightly, then squeeze the soft garlic cloves from their papery skins.
Warm the remaining olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about five minutes, until translucent and lightly browned. Stir in the roasted garlic and let the sweet aroma fill the air.
Next, add the chopped tomatoes and let them simmer gently with the onion and garlic for another five minutes. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, this step helps break them down into a smooth texture. Stir in the tomato paste (if you like a deeper flavor) and sprinkle in the sugar to tame the tanginess.
Pour in the broth and stir well. Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. For extra creaminess, you can blend the soup with an immersion blender right in the pot, or carefully transfer batches to a countertop blender until silky smooth.
Finally, sprinkle in a handful of fresh basil leaves, stirring gently to release their fragrant oils. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Your flavorful soup is now ready to serve!
This homemade tomato soup is a timeless delight for anyone who craves comforting nourishment. Its bright basil notes and roasted garlic depth bring out the best in garden-fresh tomatoes, making it equally fit for a simple weekday meal or a hearty starter at a dinner party. If you’re watching your salt or prefer extra protein, consider using a low-sodium broth or tossing in a handful of cannellini beans. Play around with additions like roasted peppers or a swirl of cream to suit your palate. However you enjoy it, this bowl of goodness will remind you why homemade tomato soup is always worth the extra effort.
