Smoky Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups ripe cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 medium red bell peppers, cut into chunks
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup water
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• Heavy cream, for serving (optional)

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. 2 Toss tomatoes and red bell peppers with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
3. 3 Roast for 25-30 minutes, until vegetables are softened and edges are caramelized.
4. 4 In a large pot, heat remaining olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
5. 5 Add smoked paprika and chili flakes, if using, stirring to coat vegetables.
6. 6 Add roasted vegetables, broth, and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes.
7. 7 Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer in batches to a blender.
8. 8 Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in basil leaves.
9. 9 Serve hot with a drizzle of cream, if desired.

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Large pot
• Immersion blender or regular blender

Variations

• Add a can of white beans for a heartier, high-protein version.
• Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.

Substitutions

• Substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a different flavor profile.
• Use canned diced tomatoes if fresh are not available.

Pairings

• Grilled cheese sandwiches
• Garlic bread
• A crisp white wine

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra smokiness, add a dash of liquid smoke.
• This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread or a simple green salad.
• Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

FAQ