There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of soup made from roasted vegetables. The way the oven caramelizes the natural sugars in zucchini and tomatoes creates a flavor that’s deeper, richer, and far more complex than a traditional stovetop version. This roasted zucchini & tomato soup is a dish that bridges the seasons—light enough for spring and summer, yet warm and nourishing for fall and winter.
This recipe was inspired by my grandmother’s rustic countryside cooking. She often roasted summer vegetables in her wood-fired oven, transforming them into vibrant, comforting dishes. I’ve adapted her traditional technique into this simple, yet delicious soup. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is a reminder that the best dishes are often made with humble ingredients and a little patience.
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Zucchini & Tomato Soup
Made with fresh, seasonal produce
Deep, roasted flavor with minimal effort
Easy to batch cook and freeze
Naturally vegan and gluten-free
Perfect as a starter or a light main course
Let’s walk through every detail to create a perfect roasted zucchini & tomato soup that’s flavorful, comforting, and nourishing.
Ingredients
For the Roasted Vegetables:
4 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch rounds
6 ripe tomatoes (Roma or vine), halved
1 red bell pepper, seeded and quartered
1 medium yellow onion, cut into wedges
6 garlic cloves, unpeeled
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian herbs
For the Soup Base:
3 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking tray with parchment paper. Arrange the zucchini, tomatoes, red pepper, onion, and garlic in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Roast for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. The tomatoes should be blistered and juicy, while the zucchini should have golden edges.
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins.
Step 2: Blend the Base
Transfer the roasted vegetables and peeled garlic to a high-speed blender or food processor. Add the tomato paste and a splash of broth. Blend until smooth, working in batches if needed.
Alternatively, for a more rustic texture, pulse a few times to keep some of the zucchini pieces intact.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour the blended mixture into a large saucepan. Add the remaining vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and red pepper flakes if using. Let the soup cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed.
Step 4: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped basil or parsley. Serve with crusty bread, grilled cheese, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Variations and Additions
This roasted zucchini & tomato soup is versatile. You can personalize it with the following variations:
Creamy Version: Add ½ cup of coconut milk or heavy cream after blending for a velvety texture.
Protein Boost: Stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas during the final simmer.
Herb Swap: Use fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano to vary the herb profile.
Add Grains: Serve over cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous to make it more filling.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup is too thick.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 140 kcal
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 7 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 480 mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Tips for Success
Use ripe tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes dramatically affects the final flavor. Overripe, in-season tomatoes offer the best taste.
Don’t skip roasting: Roasting adds depth and sweetness that boiling alone can’t achieve.
Balance acidity: A splash of balsamic vinegar rounds out the natural acidity of tomatoes and enhances the savory depth.
What to Serve with Roasted Zucchini & Tomato Soup
Rustic sourdough bread or garlic toast
Grilled cheese with mozzarella or vegan cheese
Couscous or rice salad
Pan-seared tofu or roasted chickpeas
Final Thoughts
This roasted zucchini & tomato soup is one of those rare dishes that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly healthy. It offers a taste of summer produce in a warm, cozy format that works all year round. Whether you’re making this for a quiet weekday dinner or serving it as a starter for guests, its simplicity and elegance never fail to impress.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Did you add your own twist? Share your experience and let this be a starting point for your own roasted soup creations.
