Recipe of the Week: Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup

Doesn’t it seem that all of the tomatoes on your tomato plant are ripening at the same time? What should you do with this bounty? Tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of delicious ways!

Roasted Tomato Garlic Soup is a simple and smooth soup featuring flavors from robust tomatoes, smashed garlic, herbs and spices, and a touch of creaminess from the heavy cream. It's made with fresh tomatoes and simple pantry staple ingredients. 

This delicious soup is an affordable, relatively healthy meal that pairs with so many different things. This soup is great during the summer months but can be enjoyed all year round. Plus, it's a great way to use any extra, delicious, ripe, and juicy tomatoes you have growing out in your garden during tomato season.

Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup

3-4 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
2 garlic bulbs
1/2 yellow onion, chopped
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1.5 cups heavy cream
2 cups vegetable stock
1 tsp. salt, plus more to taste
½ tsp. pepper
½ tsp. smoked paprika
½ tsp. dried oregano
½ tsp. dried basil
½ tsp. dried parsley
½ tsp. red pepper flakes
½ tsp. dried thyme

Cut the tomatoes into wedges and slice off the tops of the garlic bulbs. Roast both at 400°F for about 30-35 minutes until soft and caramelized. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and transfer the sautéed onions to a blender along with the roasted tomatoes, squeezed garlic cloves from the roasted bulbs, and vegetable stock. Blend on high until smooth. Return the blended tomato mixture to the same pot over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, basil, parsley, red pepper flakes, and thyme. Let it come to a boil for 1-2 minutes, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 5-6 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken. Once the soup has thickened, remove it from heat and ladle it into bowls. Garnish with roasted tomato wedges and serve with a side of grilled cheese if desired. Enjoy this comforting and creamy roasted tomato soup!

--contributed by Jill Rozier
Lake Tahoe Markets
www.LakeTahoeMarkets.com