A cozy and flavorful soup made with roasted roma tomatoes, garlic cloves, onion, and thyme, then blended and finished with a splash of cream and fresh basil. Perfect for chilly evenings.
3cupslow-sodium vegetable brothyou can also use chicken broth/stock
¼cupheavy creamroom temperature
Fresh basilfor garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425°Fahrenheit (220°Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Add 2 pounds halved Roma tomatoes, 8 garlic cloves, and 1 quartered yellow onion to the sheet. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons olive oil, then sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and 1 teaspoon thyme. Toss to coat and spread into an even layer. Roast for 30 minutes until jammy and lightly charred.
Transfer roasted vegetables and all pan juices to a large pot. Pour in 3 cups vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
Remove from heat and use an immersion blender (or regular blender in batches) to blend: For a silky-smooth soup (my preferred): blend fully until velvety. For a rustic texture: blend about three-quarters of the soup, then stir in the rest for little bites of tomato and onion.
Return the soup to low heat. Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream and warm through gently—don’t boil. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil. Optional: add a drizzle of olive oil or cracked black pepper.
Notes
Expert Tips From My Kitchen
Don’t crowd the baking sheet—you want the vegetables to roast, not steam.
Use a hand blender (immersion blender) right in the pot—less mess, better texture control.
If using a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly and cover with a kitchen towel before blending in batches.
A head of garlic can vary in size—if yours is small, throw in an extra clove or two.
Serving Suggestions
Wine Pairing: Serve with a crisp glass of Champagne or a mineral-driven white like Sauvignon Blanc—both cut through the richness.
Add a grilled cheese sandwich or cheese toast for dipping.
Serve in small mugs for a cozy appetizer at fall dinner parties.
Drizzle with a spoonful of basil oil or top with a dollop of ricotta and cracked black pepper.
Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a large pot over medium-low heat until warmed through.
Freeze the soup (without the cream) for up to 3 months—stir in cream after reheating.