Here’s the full recipe profile you requested for Creamy Roasted Tomato and Garlic Soup — with all the sections included, the wide line removed, and written in a warm, inviting style:
Introduction
Creamy Roasted Tomato and Garlic Soup is the ultimate comfort dish — rich, velvety, and infused with deep, savory flavors that only roasting can create. The natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes, paired with the mellow, caramelized essence of garlic, delivers a soul-warming bowl that feels both rustic and refined. It’s a versatile soup that can be enjoyed year-round: cozy enough for cold evenings yet light enough to be served as a starter in warm weather.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Tomato soup has roots across many culinary traditions. While Spain’s gazpacho showcases tomatoes in a chilled form, and Italy celebrates them in passata and hearty sauces, the roasted tomato soup has become a Western comfort classic. The roasting technique likely developed as cooks sought to intensify the tomato’s natural sweetness while preserving its vibrant flavor. Garlic, revered since ancient times for both culinary and medicinal uses, elevates the dish with depth and aroma. Today, this soup embodies simplicity, sustainability, and comfort — a reminder that the best meals often come from humble ingredients transformed by care and patience.
Ingredients Quantity
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, halved
- 1 head of garlic, cloves separated and peeled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for extra richness)
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
Optional Additions
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat
- Fresh thyme sprigs roasted with the tomatoes for earthiness
- Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese for extra creaminess
- A swirl of pesto for a fresh, herbaceous finish
- Croutons or grilled cheese sandwiches for serving
Tips for Success
- Use ripe tomatoes: The sweeter and juicier they are, the better the flavor.
- Roast properly: Don’t rush the roasting process; let the tomatoes caramelize slightly for maximum depth.
- Balance flavors: Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar if it needs brightness.
- Blend until silky: Use an immersion blender or stand blender to achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- Finish with cream slowly: Stir in cream at the end to avoid curdling.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare vegetables: Place halved tomatoes and garlic cloves on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
- Roast: Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized.
- Transfer to pot: Add roasted tomatoes and garlic to a large pot. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Season: Stir in dried basil and smoked paprika (if using). Simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Blend: Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender in batches) to puree until smooth.
- Finish: Stir in cream, taste, and adjust seasoning.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil, and enjoy with warm bread or grilled cheese.
Description
This Creamy Roasted Tomato and Garlic Soup is luxuriously smooth with layers of flavor. The roasted tomatoes bring natural sweetness, the garlic adds warmth and depth, and the cream creates a silky finish that balances the acidity. Each spoonful offers a comforting blend of rustic simplicity and restaurant-worthy elegance.
Nutritional Information (per serving, ~1 cup)
- Calories: ~180
- Protein: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Vitamin C: 35% DV
- Vitamin A: 25% DV
(Values may vary depending on cream and broth used.)
Conclusion
Creamy Roasted Tomato and Garlic Soup is a timeless classic that transforms everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether enjoyed on its own, paired with a grilled cheese sandwich, or served as a starter for a special meal, it never fails to bring warmth and satisfaction to the table.
Recommendation
Serve this soup with crusty bread, cheese toast, or a light salad for a balanced meal. For entertaining, offer it in small cups as an appetizer — its vibrant color and bold flavor always impress.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This dish beautifully balances indulgence with nourishment. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, known for supporting heart health and reducing inflammation, while garlic boosts immunity and flavor without excess calories. By choosing high-quality olive oil, using fresh produce, and moderating cream, you create a meal that feels indulgent yet remains wholesome. It’s a perfect example of mindful eating — satisfying the soul while nourishing the body.
Would you like me to also create a grilled cheese pairing guide to go with this soup for the ultimate comfort meal?