Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

This Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup is a deliciously hearty and creamy vegan delight that showcases the rich flavors of roasted tomatoes, sweet red bell peppers, and mellow garlic. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or any occasion where comfort food is needed. With its vibrant colors and delightful aroma, this soup stands out as a wholesome option that brings warmth to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The roasting process intensifies the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and peppers, creating a soup that’s bursting with flavor.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal chopping, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as an appetizer or main dish; it’s satisfying enough to stand alone or pair beautifully with bread.
• Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with nutritious ingredients, this soup is both low in calories and high in vitamins.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made without animal products, it’s suitable for various dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Blender
• Pot
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting vegetables evenly in the oven.
• Blender: Creates a smooth texture for the soup by blending roasted ingredients perfectly.
• Pot: Necessary for simmering the blended soup to enhance flavors and achieve the right consistency.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 kg tomatoes of choice (about 2.2 pounds)
• 3 red bell peppers (about 450 g / 1 pound, seeded and quartered)
• 2 onions (cut into wedges or halves)
• 2 heads of garlic

For Seasoning and Creaminess

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
• Fine salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For Blending

• 2-3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup oat cream or full-fat coconut cream

Garnish

• Extra olive oil
• Sourdough bread for serving

How to Make Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the tomatoes, red bell peppers, and onions on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 30 ml (2 tablespoons) of olive oil. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Roast the Garlic

Cut off the top of the garlic heads. Place them on the baking sheet alongside the other vegetables.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Roast everything in the oven for about 40-50 minutes until tender and slightly charred. Check halfway through cooking; stir if necessary. The garlic should be soft enough to squeeze out easily.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

Once roasted, carefully transfer all vegetables to a blender. Squeeze out roasted garlic cloves from their skins into the blender. Add 480-720 ml (2-3 cups) of vegetable broth. Blend until smooth.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Pour the blended mixture into a pot over medium heat. Stir in 240 ml (1 cup) of oat cream or coconut cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle hot soup into bowls. Garnish with a drizzle of extra cream, olive oil, and serve alongside slices of toasted sourdough bread for an indulgent finish.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

This Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enhance your dining experience by pairing it with various accompaniments that elevate its flavors and textures.

With Crusty Sourdough Bread

• Enjoy the soup with slices of toasted sourdough bread for dipping, adding a delightful crunch and chewiness to each spoonful.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with freshly chopped basil or parsley to brighten the dish and add a burst of freshness.

With a Drizzle of Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top adds richness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Pair the soup with a light green salad dressed in a vinaigrette to balance the creamy texture of the soup.

Served in Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls, allowing you to enjoy both the soup and the bread as you go!

With Vegan Cheese Toasties

• Pair with vegan cheese toasties for an indulgent combination, perfect for those cold evenings when comfort food is needed.

How to Perfect Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

To make sure your Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use ripe tomatoes: The fresher and more flavorful your tomatoes are, the better your soup will taste. Look for juicy, ripe tomatoes at the market.
• Roast thoroughly: Ensure that your vegetables are roasted until tender and slightly charred. This caramelization enhances their natural sweetness.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning depending on your preference.
• Blend in batches if needed: If you have a smaller blender, blend in batches to avoid overfilling. This ensures a smooth consistency without spills.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like smoked paprika or cumin for different flavor profiles that suit your palate.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup can create a satisfying meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
2. This classic side is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. Make it with vegan butter and fresh garlic for added flavor.
3. Caprese Salad
4. Fresh slices of tomato, basil, and vegan mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
5. Grilled Vegetable Platter
6. Charred seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant bring additional texture and nutrients alongside the soup.
7. Quinoa Salad
8. A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette provides protein while keeping things refreshing.
9. Spinach Artichoke Dip
10. Serve this creamy dip alongside tortilla chips or pita bread for an appetizer that complements the flavors of the soup wonderfully.
11. Stuffed Bell Peppers
12. Filled with rice or quinoa and vegetables, stuffed bell peppers make for a hearty addition that pairs well with tomato flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience and the final dish’s flavor.

• Overcooking vegetables: Roasting for too long can lead to burnt flavors. Check your vegetables halfway through the cooking time and stir if necessary.
• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, and other spices to elevate the flavor.
• Using unripe tomatoes: Unripe tomatoes lack flavor. Opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best taste in your soup.
• Neglecting to blend well: A chunky soup may not have the desired creamy texture. Blend thoroughly until smooth for a delightful mouthfeel.
• Skipping garnishes: Garnishes enhance presentation and flavor. Don’t forget to add oat cream, olive oil, or fresh herbs before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 5 days.

Freezing Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common queries about Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup.

What is Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup?

Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup is a creamy vegan dish made from roasted tomatoes, red bell peppers, garlic, and spices.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup?

To boost flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme, or a splash of balsamic vinegar during blending.

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

Yes! This soup can be prepared in advance. It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

What are some customization options for this soup?

You can customize it by adding other vegetables like carrots or zucchini or adjusting the spice level with more cayenne pepper.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes! The ingredients used in this Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or additional spices to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!