Cherry Tomato Soup Recipe

Imagine the warmth of a cozy bowl of soup, the rich aroma of roasted tomatoes, and the satisfying blend of flavors that make your taste buds dance. Cherry Tomato Soup is the perfect dish that combines freshness, depth, and simplicity into one delicious bowl. Whether you’re looking to brighten a cold evening or enjoy a comforting, vibrant meal, this soup is a go-to that you’ll make again and again.

What’s even better is that it’s versatile-perfect for a weekday dinner, a cozy weekend gathering, or even a light lunch paired with a crusty baguette. The natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes, complemented by the savory depth of roasted garlic and herbs, creates a symphony of flavors that will make you forget about the canned tomato soup you might have grown up with. Trust me, this recipe will elevate your soup game.

So, let’s dive into the recipe!

This Cherry Tomato Soup recipe uses the fresh, naturally sweet flavor of cherry tomatoes, roasting them first to deepen their taste and create a rich, velvety broth. The result is a vibrant, comforting soup that’s perfect year-round. Here’s how you can make it from scratch:

Ingredients Needed

Cherry tomatoes (3 lbs or about 6 cups) – Fresh and full of sweetness, the base of this soup. You can use a mix of red, yellow, and orange varieties for added depth of color.
Garlic (4-5 cloves, whole) – Roasting garlic with the tomatoes imparts a deep, mellow flavor.
Olive oil (2 tbsp) – Adds richness and helps with the roasting process.
Yellow onion (1 medium, chopped) – Provides a savory foundation for the soup.
Vegetable or chicken broth (4 cups) – A rich, flavorful base that ties all the ingredients together.
Fresh basil (1/4 cup, chopped) – Brings a fragrant herbaceous note to the soup.
Sugar (1 tsp) – Optional, but helps balance out the natural acidity of the tomatoes.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings for balancing and bringing out all the flavors.
Heavy cream (1/4 cup) – For a rich, velvety finish (optional for a creamier texture).
Red pepper flakes (1/4 tsp) – A pinch adds a subtle kick, but optional if you prefer a milder flavor.

Cooking Instructions

Preheat your oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C). The roasting process will help intensify the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and bring out their deep, smoky flavor.
Prepare the tomatoes: Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly and place them on a baking sheet. Toss them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated. Throw in the garlic cloves (with skins on) for an extra layer of flavor. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Roast the tomatoes: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened, burst open, and have some charred edges. The garlic should be soft and fragrant.
Cook the onion: While the tomatoes are roasting, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent.
Blend the soup: Once the tomatoes are roasted, remove them from the oven. Peel the garlic cloves and add them to the pot with the onions. Then, pour in the roasted tomatoes (skin and all) and the broth. Stir to combine.
Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 10 minutes to meld the flavors together. If the soup is too thick, add more broth to reach your desired consistency.
Blend it smooth: Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until it’s smooth and velvety. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the blender a few times.
Final touches: Stir in the chopped fresh basil, a pinch of sugar if needed, and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper. If you want a creamy finish, add a splash of heavy cream.
Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with extra basil or a swirl of cream if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal!

Ingredient Insights

Cherry tomatoes: These little gems are packed with antioxidants, especially lycopene, which has been shown to have potential cancer-fighting properties. Their natural sweetness makes them a great base for soups and sauces, offering a fresh, bright flavor compared to larger tomato varieties.
Garlic: Roasting garlic softens its sharpness and enhances its natural sweetness. Not only does it bring an aromatic richness to the soup, but it also has antibacterial and immune-boosting benefits.
Olive oil: Aside from adding flavor, olive oil is rich in healthy fats, especially monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health.
Basil: A fragrant herb that adds a fresh, peppery flavor. Basil is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Heavy cream: While optional, adding a little cream helps to mellow out the acidity of the tomatoes and creates a luxurious, smooth texture.

Expert Tips

Roasting the tomatoes is key: Don’t skip this step. Roasting intensifies the flavor and gives the soup a deep, caramelized richness that you simply can’t get by just cooking fresh tomatoes in a pot.
Use a blender for a silky texture: To get that velvety consistency, a blender (preferably immersion) is your best friend. It’ll turn everything into a smooth, creamy base without the need for extra cream.
Adjust the consistency: If you like a thicker soup, reduce the broth by a cup. For a lighter version, you can add more broth or water.
Experiment with herbs: If basil isn’t your thing, thyme, oregano, or even a touch of rosemary can work well. Just keep in mind that these herbs are stronger, so use them sparingly.
Make it ahead: Like many soups, Cherry Tomato Soup tastes even better the next day. Make a big batch, refrigerate, and reheat for an easy meal later on!

Recipe Variations

Spicy Cherry Tomato Soup: Add a chopped chili pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to bring some heat to your soup. The sweetness of the tomatoes and the heat of the chili create a fantastic contrast.
Roasted Veggie Soup: Try adding other roasted vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the mix. These will bring even more depth of flavor and texture.
Vegan Version: Skip the heavy cream and use coconut milk instead. You can also substitute the broth with vegetable stock to keep it vegan-friendly.
Tomato Basil Bisque: For a thicker, richer version of this soup, blend in a little more cream and top with shredded cheese or croutons.

Final Words

Cherry Tomato Soup is the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re sitting in a sun-dappled garden, soaking in the flavors of the season. With minimal ingredients but maximum flavor, it’s a dish that’s accessible and yet feels sophisticated in its own right. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe to be an easy win. The best part? You can make it as rich, creamy, or light as you like, all while getting that fresh, homemade feel.

So, next time you’re craving something comforting yet vibrant, pull out that bag of cherry tomatoes and let your kitchen fill with the aroma of roasting tomatoes and garlic. I promise, this will become a go-to recipe you’ll return to over and over again.

Cherry Tomato Soup Recipe