Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

This Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup is a delightful vegan dish that brings together the rich flavors of roasted tomatoes and sweet red bell peppers. Perfect for any occasion, this hearty soup is not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is sure to impress with its creamy texture and vibrant taste. With a hint of Italian seasoning and a touch of cayenne pepper, it’s garnished with oat cream and fresh basil for an extra burst of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious homemade soup that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich in Flavor: The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and peppers, creating a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
• Versatile Dish: This soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with toasted sourdough bread for a complete meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins, this soup is made from wholesome vegetables, making it both healthy and satisfying.
• Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy this creamy dish without any animal products, perfect for those following a plant-based diet.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment will ensure the cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting vegetables evenly, allowing them to caramelize beautifully.
• Blender: Essential for achieving that smooth and creamy texture that makes this soup delightful.
• Pot: Necessary for simmering the blended soup, allowing flavors to meld together perfectly.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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

For Garnish

• Extra olive oil
• Sourdough bread

How to Make Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Place the tomatoes, red bell peppers, and onions on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 30 ml (2 tablespoons) of olive oil, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Roast the Garlic

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

Step 4: Roast the Vegetables

Roast everything in the oven for 40-50 minutes until tender and slightly charred. Halfway through cooking, check on them and give them a stir if necessary. Ensure the garlic is soft enough to squeeze out easily.

Step 5: Blend the Soup

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

Step 6: 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. Let it come to a gentle simmer while tasting to adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with a drizzle of extra cream and olive oil. Serve alongside slices of toasted sourdough bread for a satisfying meal.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

Serving Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions for serving this flavorful soup to enhance its taste and presentation.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of flavor.
• Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley provides a vibrant color contrast and freshness.

Drizzled with Cream

• Oat Cream: A drizzle of oat cream on the soup adds richness and a creamy texture.
• Olive Oil: A splash of high-quality olive oil enhances the flavors and adds complexity.

Accompanied by Bread

• Toasted Sourdough: Serve slices of toasted sourdough bread for dipping, adding a crunchy texture.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread pairs perfectly, offering a deliciously savory complement to the soup.

As Part of a Meal

• Salad: Pair with a light salad, such as arugula or spinach, for added freshness.
• Stuffed Peppers: Serve with stuffed bell peppers for a hearty, satisfying meal.

How to Perfect Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

Perfecting your Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup can make all the difference in flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is top-notch.

• Use Ripe Tomatoes: Selecting ripe tomatoes enhances sweetness and depth in your soup.
• Roast Until Charred: Roast vegetables until they develop some char for rich, smoky flavors.
• Adjust Broth Quantity: Start with less broth; you can always add more if you prefer a thinner consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste while cooking to adjust seasoning according to your preference.
• Blend Thoroughly: Ensure the soup is well-blended for a smooth, creamy texture without chunks.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to customize spices like smoked paprika or cumin for extra warmth.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

Pairing side dishes with Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic that complements the soup’s creaminess beautifully.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad adds nutritional value and texture contrast.
3. Vegetable Crudité Platter: Fresh veggies with hummus provide crunch and freshness alongside the soup.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella (or dairy-free cheese) offer a delightful bite-sized treat.
5. Pita Chips with Dip: Crispy pita chips served with vegan dips make for an enjoyable snack alongside the soup.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add heartiness to your meal while echoing the soup’s flavors.
7. Rice Cakes with Avocado Spread: Light rice cakes topped with avocado create a satisfying crunch paired with the smooth soup.
8. Savory Muffins: Enjoy warm savory muffins filled with herbs or vegetables for a comforting addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup can be a delight, but avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the best flavor.

• Using unripe tomatoes: Always choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best taste. Unripe tomatoes can lead to a bland soup.
• Skipping the roasting step: Roasting enhances the flavors of the vegetables. Don’t skip this critical step, as it brings out natural sweetness.
• Not seasoning properly: Taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for maximum flavor.
• Over-blending: Blending too long can make the soup too thin. Blend just until smooth for a hearty texture.
• Ignoring garnishes: Garnishes add flavor and visual appeal. Don’t forget to top your soup with oat cream and fresh basil.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 175°C (350°F). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup.

How do I make my Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup thicker?

You can add more blended vegetables or reduce the broth used. Another option is to incorporate a bit of cornstarch mixed with cold water.

Can I use different types of peppers in this Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with yellow or orange bell peppers for varied flavors and colors.

What should I serve with Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup?

Pair it with toasted sourdough bread or a fresh salad for a wholesome meal.

Is this Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup is not only creamy and delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different spices or toppings as per your liking. Try this recipe for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare!