How to Create Creamy Roasted Tomato and Pepper Soup
Who doesn’t love a warm, comforting bowl of soup, especially during the cold months? Creamy roasted tomato and pepper soup is one of those simple yet delicious recipes that will make your taste buds sing. The combination of roasted vegetables creates a rich, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the soup. Best of all, it’s easy to make! Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or looking for a cozy dish, this soup is a winner.
Here’s how you can make your own creamy roasted tomato and pepper soup with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before starting, gather all the ingredients you need for this recipe. Having everything within arm’s reach makes cooking more enjoyable!
- Fresh Vegetables:
- 6 ripe tomatoes
- 2 red bell peppers
- 1 medium onion
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4 garlic cloves
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Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
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A handful of fresh basil or parsley for garnish
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Liquid Base:
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (you can use coconut cream or milk for a dairy-free option)
Step 1: Roast the Vegetables
Roasting brings out the rich and sweet flavors of the tomatoes and peppers. It’s the secret behind the smoky taste in this soup.
- Prepare the ingredients:
- Wash and slice the tomatoes into halves.
- Cut the bell peppers into quarters and remove the seeds.
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Peel the onion and garlic cloves but leave them whole.
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Arrange on a baking tray:
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Take a large baking sheet and arrange the tomatoes, peppers, onion, and garlic pieces on it. Place them in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
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Drizzle with olive oil:
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Pour olive oil over the vegetables. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Toss everything gently to coat the vegetables evenly.
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Roast in the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast the vegetables for about 25–30 minutes. They should look soft, slightly caramelized, and have a golden-brown color.
Step 2: Blend the Vegetables
Once your vegetables are roasted to perfection, it’s time to blend everything into a smooth, creamy base.
- Transfer to a blender:
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Carefully place the roasted vegetables into a blender. You can also use an immersion blender if you prefer. Remember to let the vegetables cool slightly before blending to avoid any accidents.
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Add vegetable broth:
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Pour in 3 cups of vegetable broth to help the blending process. If the consistency is too thick for your liking, feel free to add more broth.
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Blend until smooth:
- Blend everything until the mixture is creamy and uniform. If you enjoy a slightly chunky texture, you can blend less.
Tip: If you don’t have a blender, you can use a food processor or mash the vegetables by hand, though the texture may not be as smooth.
Step 3: Heat and Add Cream
Now that your base is ready, it’s time to turn the blended veggies into a warm, creamy soup.
- Transfer to a pot:
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Pour the blended mixture into a large pot and place it over medium heat.
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Add cream:
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Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. The cream adds richness and smoothness to the soup. If you’re making a dairy-free version, coconut cream works just as well.
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Simmer:
- Let the soup simmer gently for 5–10 minutes so all the flavors can meld together. Taste test at this stage and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
The soup is ready! Now it’s time to serve it up and add finishing touches.
- Pour into bowls:
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Ladle the soup into serving bowls.
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Garnish:
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Sprinkle fresh basil, parsley, or even a dollop of cream on top.
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Serve with bread:
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Roasted tomato and pepper soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple grilled cheese sandwich.
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Enjoy:
- Sit down, take your first spoonful, and savor the creamy, smoky flavor.
Recipe Notes
- Customize it! If you like a spicier soup, add chili flakes or cayenne pepper while roasting the vegetables.
- Storage: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat it gently on the stove or microwave.
- Freeze for later: Make a big batch and freeze half for lazy nights. It’s a great way to enjoy homemade soup without extra effort.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This creamy roasted tomato and pepper soup is incredibly versatile. It’s healthy, satisfying, and packed with bold flavors. Roasting vegetables enhances their natural sweetness, while the cream adds a smooth richness.
By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious homemade soup that rivals any restaurant dish. So, grab your ingredients, turn on the oven, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of comforting goodness.
