A silky and comforting soup featuring roasted garlic, crushed tomatoes, and a splash of cream, perfect for chilly nights or easy dinner parties.
Prep Time 20 minutesminutes
Cook Time 50 minutesminutes
Total Time 1 hourhour10 minutesminutes
Serving Size 6servings
Ingredients
For the roasted garlic
2headsgarlicTrim tops to expose cloves
1tablespoonolive oilFor roasting garlic
For the soup base
1largeonion, choppedProvides sweetness
2mediumcarrots, dicedAdds sweetness and depth
2stalkscelery, dicedPart of the mirepoix
1teaspoondried oregano
1teaspoondried basil
For the main ingredients
28ouncescrushed tomatoesUse canned for convenience
3cupsvegetable or chicken brothUse low-sodium to control salt
1teaspoonsaltAdjust according to taste
1/2teaspoonblack pepperAdjust according to taste
For finishing the soup
1cupheavy creamFor richness
1bunchfresh basil leavesFor garnish (optional)
Instructions
Roasting Garlic
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Trim the tops off both garlic heads to expose the cloves. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and wrap each head tightly in aluminum foil.
Roast for 30–35 minutes until the cloves are soft and golden. Let cool slightly.
Sautéing Vegetables
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and beginning to color.
Add the dried oregano and dried basil. Cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from their skins into the pot, discarding the papery skins. Stir to combine.
Cooking the Soup
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Season with salt and pepper. Increase heat and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes to meld the flavors.
Puréeing the Soup
Purée the soup until smooth using an immersion blender. Alternatively, carefully transfer hot soup to a blender and blend in batches—vent the lid slightly and cover with a towel to prevent splatter.
Finishing Touches
Return the soup to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and warm gently—do not boil after adding cream. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.