Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup

Flavorful roasted red peppers and fresh tomatoes create an incredible base in this creamy, comforting roasted red pepper tomato soup! This dish is perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or even a simple lunch. The rich flavor profile and vibrant color will impress your guests while providing a warm hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of roasted red peppers and tomatoes gives the soup a deep, satisfying taste.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a starter, main course, or paired with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and nutrients from fresh vegetables.
• Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or spices to make it uniquely yours!

Tools and Preparation

To make the best roasted red pepper tomato soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures everything goes smoothly during preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender or immersion blender
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Dutch oven or medium pot
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender or immersion blender: This tool creates a smooth and creamy texture by blending the roasted ingredients seamlessly.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy surface to roast your vegetables evenly, allowing for that wonderful caramelization.
• Dutch oven or medium pot: Ideal for simmering the soup to blend flavors without splattering.

Ingredients

Flavorful roasted red peppers and fresh tomatoes make the most incredible soup base in this creamy, comforting roasted red pepper tomato soup!

For the Soup Base

• 3 lbs tomatoes, cored and quartered
• 2 medium sweet peppers, cored and quartered
• 4 medium cloves garlic, unpeeled

For Flavoring

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 cup 2% or skim milk
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup minced fresh basil

For Serving

• Additional fresh basil
• Croutons

How to Make Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the tomatoes, sweet peppers, and unpeeled garlic on the pan. Drizzle olive oil over the top and season everything with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Roast Your Vegetables

Roast the tomatoes and peppers at 400°F for 25–30 minutes until they are very soft and juicy. Allow them to cool for several minutes. Peel the skin off the garlic; rub off any skins from the peppers and tomatoes before discarding them.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

Pour the peeled tomatoes, sweet pepper, garlic, and any accumulated juices into a blender. Blend on high speed until smooth. If you prefer, you can use an immersion blender directly in a pot. Pour the blended mixture into a Dutch oven or medium pot.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Whisk in the tomato paste into your soup base. Bring it to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until well incorporated. Reduce heat to medium; add milk, cream, oregano, and sugar while folding everything together until combined. Cook for an additional five minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Final Touches

Season your soup with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in fresh basil just before serving. Serve warm topped with croutons and additional fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup

Roasted red pepper tomato soup is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate its flavors and make for a satisfying meal.

Croutons

• Crunchy croutons add texture and a delightful crunch to each spoonful of soup.

Fresh Basil

• A sprinkle of fresh basil on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor.

Grated Parmesan Cheese

• For those who enjoy cheese, grated Parmesan provides a salty, nutty contrast to the sweetness of the soup.

Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado slices can add richness and complement the soup’s flavors beautifully.

Olive Oil Drizzle

• A drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil just before serving can enhance the aroma and richness of the soup.

Toasted Bread

• Serve with warm, toasted bread or baguette slices for dipping, making each bite even more enjoyable.

How to Perfect Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup

Creating an unforgettable roasted red pepper tomato soup involves a few simple techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose ripe tomatoes: Using ripe, seasonal tomatoes will give your soup a natural sweetness and rich flavor.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil or oregano adds an aromatic touch that elevates the overall taste of your soup.
• Adjust creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of milk or cream based on your desired creaminess level.
• Blend thoroughly: Ensure you blend the ingredients well for a smooth texture; any lumps can detract from the experience.
• Taste as you go: Always taste your soup while cooking, adjusting seasoning to suit your preference for salt or pepper.
• Serve warm: Enjoy your soup hot; serving it at the right temperature enhances its comforting qualities.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup

Pairing side dishes with roasted red pepper tomato soup can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these options:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
   A classic pairing, grilled cheese offers gooey comfort that complements the soup’s flavors.
2. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that’s light yet flavorful.
3. Garlic Bread
   Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into warm soup, adding a savory element to your meal.
4. Quinoa Salad
   A protein-packed quinoa salad with veggies provides a nutritious balance alongside your creamy soup.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Flavorful stuffed mushrooms bring an earthy taste that pairs nicely with roasted red peppers’ sweetness.
6. Vegetable Skewers
   Grilled vegetable skewers offer vibrant colors and textures that brighten up any meal when served with this soup.
7. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side that contrasts well with smooth soup.
8. Spinach Salad
   A light spinach salad dressed with vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch to round out your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you get it just right.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Roasting is key, but don’t let them burn. Keep an eye on your tomatoes and peppers; they should be soft and juicy, not charred.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Underseasoning can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the flavors.
• Skipping the Blender Step: For a smooth texture, blending is essential. Don’t skip this step; it brings all the flavors together beautifully.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold milk or cream can affect the soup’s temperature. Let them sit out for a bit before adding to ensure even mixing.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds brightness. Don’t skip this final touch; it elevates your soup from good to great.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to leave space for expansion.

Reheating Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup that might help you.

Can I make Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or frozen for later use.

What can I serve with Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup?

This soup pairs well with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How can I customize my Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup?

You can add various spices like cayenne pepper for heat or switch up the herbs based on your preference.

Is there a vegan version of Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup?

Absolutely! Substitute dairy with plant-based milk and cream alternatives for a delicious vegan option.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. Its rich flavors can easily be customized by adding different spices or toppings. Give it a try, and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness any day of the week!