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If you love fresh, creamy roasted red pepper and tomato soup like you get at a bakery or deli, you’ll love the fresh flavor from making it at home! Perfect for a chilly day, great with grilled cheese – this soup is one the whole family loves!
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Homemade Roasted red pepper and Tomato Soup
Homemade Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup is a delightful culinary creation that marries the sweet smokiness of roasted red peppers with the tangy richness of ripe tomatoes.
This soup is a symphony of flavors and textures, where the peppers are charred to perfection and blended with tomatoes, creating a silky and velvety base.
It’s a comforting bowl of warmth and goodness, often enriched with cream for a luxurious touch.
Whether enjoyed as a starter or a standalone meal, this homemade soup is a celebration of vibrant colors and the irresistible harmony of sweet and savory notes, making it a beloved classic in the world of soups!
Serve with a grilled cheese or some crusty bread, this soup is sure to become your family’s new favorite!
How to Make Creamy Red Pepper Tomato Soup
To make this recipe, we will need the following ingredients:
Red Bell Peppers (Roasted and Peeled): The roasted red bell peppers are the star of this soup, adding a sweet and smoky flavor. They provide depth and a rich, vibrant red color to the soup.
Tomatoes (Diced): Fresh tomatoes contribute acidity and a natural sweetness to the soup. They are a key element in the tomato base, offering a bright and tangy flavor.
Onion (Chopped): Onions add a savory and slightly sweet flavor to the soup. They provide a solid aromatic foundation and depth of flavor.
Garlic (Minced): Minced garlic enhances the overall flavor profile with its pungent and aromatic quality. It adds a subtle background note of earthy richness.
Vegetable Broth: Vegetable broth serves as the liquid base for the soup, adding moisture and a savory, umami depth of flavor. It also provides a balanced saltiness to the dish.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is responsible for the soup’s creamy and luxurious texture. It adds richness and a velvety mouthfeel, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and the sweetness of the peppers.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the onions and garlic, infusing them with a delicate Mediterranean flavor and preventing them from sticking to the pot.
Dried Basil: Dried basil contributes a gentle herbal note to the soup. It complements the sweetness of the peppers and tomatoes, adding a layer of complexity.
Dried Oregano: Dried oregano offers a hint of earthy, Mediterranean flavor. It pairs well with the basil and complements the overall seasoning of the soup.
Salt and Pepper: These seasonings are essential for balancing and enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients. They add depth and enhance the overall taste.
Fresh Basil Leaves (Optional for Garnish): Fresh basil leaves, when used as a garnish, provide a burst of freshness, aroma, and vibrant color to the finished soup. They can elevate its presentation and flavor.
Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, we will use the following process:
- Roast and Peel the Red Bell Peppers:
- Preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet and broil, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred and blistered.
- Remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the peppers steam for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to peel the skin.
- Once steamed, peel the skin off the peppers, remove the seeds and stems, and roughly chop the flesh.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Red Bell Peppers:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, roasted red bell peppers, dried basil, and dried oregano. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Blend the Mixture:
- Using an immersion blender or a regular blender (in batches if necessary), puree the mixture until smooth.
- Return to the Pot:
- Pour the pureed mixture back into the pot.
- Simmer and Add Broth:
- Place the pot over medium heat and add the vegetable broth. Stir well and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing it to thicken and the flavors to develop.
- Stir in Heavy Cream:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through but not boiled.
- Season and Serve:
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Ladle the creamy red pepper tomato soup into bowls. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and extra flavor.
- Enjoy:
- Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Creamy Red Pepper Tomato Soup!
Tips and Tricks to Perfect Creamy Red Pepper Tomato Soup
Roast the Red Peppers Properly: Roasting red peppers is a key step in this recipe. Ensure that the peppers are evenly charred and blistered under the broiler or over an open flame. This process enhances their flavor and makes it easier to peel off the skin.
Use Ripe Tomatoes: Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. Fresh tomatoes will add a natural sweetness and acidity to the soup.
Sauté the Aromatics: Take your time when sautéing the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cooking them until they become translucent and fragrant adds depth of flavor to the soup.
Balance the Seasoning: Season the soup with salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go. It’s easier to add more seasoning later than to correct an overly salty dish.
Choose Quality Broth: Use a good-quality vegetable broth to enhance the soup’s flavor. Homemade broth is ideal, but if using store-bought, opt for low-sodium options to have better control over the saltiness.
Adjust the Creaminess: The amount of heavy cream can be adjusted to your preference. If you want a richer soup, you can add a bit more cream. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter version, reduce the cream slightly.
Blend Thoroughly: Use a good blender or immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s completely smooth. A silky texture is key to a creamy soup.
Simmer for Flavor: Allow the soup to simmer after adding the vegetable broth. This helps the flavors meld and develop, resulting in a more robust taste.
Herbs and Spices: Experiment with herbs and spices to personalize the flavor. You can try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat or fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness.
Garnish Thoughtfully: When garnishing, consider fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Garnishes not only add flavor but also enhance the visual appeal.
Serve Hot: Red Pepper Tomato Soup is best served hot. Reheat gently if needed, and serve it in warmed bowls for an enjoyable dining experience.
Pairing: Consider serving the soup with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side salad to make it a complete meal.
FAQs
Yes, you can use canned roasted red peppers if you’re short on time or don’t have access to fresh ones. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the soup.
Absolutely! Red Pepper Tomato Soup reheats well. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until hot.
Yes, you can freeze the soup for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or Ziploc bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
To add some heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during the sautéing stage. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of spiciness.
Yes, you can use alternatives like half-and-half or whole milk to reduce the soup’s fat content. Keep in mind that the consistency and richness may vary.
Common side options include crusty bread, garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a heartier meal.
If you find the soup too thick, you can thin it out by adding a bit more vegetable broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth and heavy cream. For a vegan option, substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream.
While red bell peppers are traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with other colored bell peppers like yellow or orange for slightly different flavor profiles.
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within 3-4 days.
What to Serve With Creamy Red Pepper Tomato Soup
Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: Slices of crusty baguette or garlic bread are perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up its rich flavors.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic grilled cheese sandwich with melted cheese between crispy bread slices is a comforting and popular choice to accompany the soup.
Side Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing and healthy element to the meal.
Cheese and Charcuterie Platter: Create a cheese and charcuterie board with an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, olives, and crackers. It offers a variety of flavors to enjoy alongside the soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts can be a tasty and nutritious side dish that complements the soup.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed bell peppers filled with rice, ground meat, or vegetables can tie in with the red pepper theme and make a satisfying accompaniment.
Focaccia Bread: Focaccia bread with olive oil and herbs is another excellent option for dipping and savoring alongside the soup.
Quiche: A slice of quiche, whether it’s spinach and cheese or a classic Lorraine, can be a substantial and delightful addition to your meal.
Avocado Toast: Spread avocado on toast and season it with salt, pepper, and a dash of lemon juice. It’s a simple yet tasty side that complements the soup.
Cornbread: Serve cornbread, either plain or with a touch of honey or butter, for a sweet and savory contrast.
Baked Brie: Warm, gooey baked Brie cheese served with crackers or baguette slices can be an indulgent pairing.
Fried Mozzarella Sticks: For a crispy and cheesy side, consider serving fried mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce for dipping.
Crispy Chickpea Salad: Roasted chickpeas tossed with your favorite seasonings can add a crunchy and protein-rich element to your meal.
Pasta: A simple pasta dish like spaghetti aglio e olio or penne with pesto can complement the soup.
Herb-Roasted Potatoes: Crispy herb-roasted potatoes can be a hearty and comforting choice to serve alongside the soup.
Try these delicious recipes next:
Creamy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup Recipe
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Red Pepper Tomato Soup
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 red bell peppers roasted and peeled
- 4 large tomatoes diced
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish optional
Instructions
- Red Bell Peppers (Roasted and Peeled): The roasted red bell peppers are the star of this soup, adding a sweet and smoky flavor. They provide depth and a rich, vibrant red color to the soup.
- Tomatoes (Diced): Fresh tomatoes contribute acidity and a natural sweetness to the soup. They are a key element in the tomato base, offering a bright and tangy flavor.
- Onion (Chopped): Onions add a savory and slightly sweet flavor to the soup. They provide a solid aromatic foundation and depth of flavor.
- Garlic (Minced): Minced garlic enhances the overall flavor profile with its pungent and aromatic quality. It adds a subtle background note of earthy richness.
- Vegetable Broth: Vegetable broth serves as the liquid base for the soup, adding moisture and a savory, umami depth of flavor. It also provides a balanced saltiness to the dish.
- Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is responsible for the soup's creamy and luxurious texture. It adds richness and a velvety mouthfeel, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and the sweetness of the peppers.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the onions and garlic, infusing them with a delicate Mediterranean flavor and preventing them from sticking to the pot.
- Dried Basil: Dried basil contributes a gentle herbal note to the soup. It complements the sweetness of the peppers and tomatoes, adding a layer of complexity.
- Dried Oregano: Dried oregano offers a hint of earthy, Mediterranean flavor. It pairs well with the basil and complements the overall seasoning of the soup.
- Salt and Pepper: These seasonings are essential for balancing and enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients. They add depth and enhance the overall taste.
- Fresh Basil Leaves (Optional for Garnish): Fresh basil leaves, when used as a garnish, provide a burst of freshness, aroma, and vibrant color to the finished soup. They can elevate its presentation and flavor.
