Roasted Red Bell Pepper Soup Recipe: Easy and Delicious

Roasted Red Bell Pepper Soup RecipeRoasted Red Bell Pepper Soup is a delicious, nutritious, and vibrant dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. This soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or as an appetizer for a special occasion. With its rich taste and smooth texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser that even kids will love. The origin of this soup can be traced back to Mediterranean cuisine, where roasted peppers are a staple ingredient, adding depth and sweetness to various dishes.

Are roasted red bell peppers healthy? Absolutely! Roasted red bell peppers are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin, boosting the immune system, and promoting good vision. Additionally, red bell peppers are a great source of antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in the body and reduce inflammation.

What does roasting a bell pepper do? Roasting bell peppers brings out their natural sweetness and imparts a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup. The process of roasting caramelizes the sugars in the peppers, giving them a complex and rich flavor profile.

Let’s dive into this simple roasted red bell pepper soup recipe and discover how easy it is to make this delightful dish at home.

Ingredients

  • 4 large red bell peppers: Fresh and vibrant, these are the star of the dish.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: For roasting and sautéing.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a savory depth to the soup.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a robust flavor that complements the sweetness of the peppers.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness to enhance the roasted flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a subtle earthiness to the soup.
  • 4 cups vegetable broth: The base that ties all the flavors together.
  • 1 cup canned diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and balances the sweetness of the peppers.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: To season the soup to perfection.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional): For a creamy texture and richer taste.
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Adds a fresh, aromatic touch to the finished dish.

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Bell Peppers

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the Peppers: Cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and stems.
  3. Roast the Peppers: Place the peppers cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  4. Bake: Roast the peppers in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the skins are charred and blistered.
  5. Cool and Peel: Remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let them cool for about 10 minutes. Once cooled, peel off the skins and set the peppers aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Soup Base

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add Seasonings: Stir in the smoked paprika and thyme, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to release their flavors.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

  1. Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted peppers, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
  2. Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches.

Step 4: Final Touches

  1. Season the Soup: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  2. Add Cream: If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream and heat through.
  3. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Tips and Variations

  • How to use roasted red peppers? Aside from soup, roasted red peppers can be used in salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes, or blended into sauces for a smoky flavor.
  • Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup: For a variation, add an extra cup of diced tomatoes for a more tomato-forward flavor.
  • Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Soup: To make it vegan, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk.
  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Vitamin A: 150% of the Daily Value (DV)
  • Vitamin C: 300% of the DV
  • Iron: 10% of the DV

Conclusion

This Simple Roasted Red Bell Pepper Soup is an easy and delicious way to enjoy the rich flavors of roasted peppers. Whether you’re looking for a healthy starter or a comforting meal, this soup is sure to satisfy you. Its versatility and depth of flavor make it a favorite in many kitchens.

We hope you enjoy making this Easy Red Pepper Soup and discover why it’s such a beloved recipe. Feel free to experiment with different variations and share your experiences with us in the comments below. If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to check out our other delicious soups like the Roasted Red Pepper Soup Jamie Oliver and the James Martin Tomato and Red Pepper Soup. Happy cooking.

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