1. 1. Roasting Time May Vary: Depending on your oven and the size of your tomatoes, the roasting time can vary. Keep an eye on them and look for a nice caramelization without letting them burn.
   2. Blenders: If you don't have a blender, an immersion blender works great right in the pot. It also gives you more control over the texture of the soup. A food processor will also work.
   3. Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can thin it out with a bit of vegetable broth. Add it gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
   4. Add Heat: For an extra flavor kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes before roasting the vegetables.
   5. Garnish Variations: While fresh basil is a classic garnish, don't hesitate to experiment with grated vegan Parmesan cheese, a dollop of vegan pesto, or even homemade croutons for added texture and flavor.
   6. Season to Taste: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sometimes a little extra salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice is all it takes to bring out the flavors.
   7. Make It Creamy: For a creamier texture, add a splash of vegan heavy cream (oat cream is delicious!), coconut cream, or your favorite plant-based milk alternative after blending the soup. Stir well and heat through to integrate the creamy element fully.
   8. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh? Yes, you can use canned plum tomatoes if fresh ones aren't available. The soup will still be delicious, though the flavor might be slightly different. Opt for whole, peeled tomatoes for the best result.
   9. Protein: While this soup is hearty on its own, adding protein like white beans or even chickpeas can make it even more filling. Just add your protein of choice when blending or after to keep them whole.

Storage & Reheating

• • Cool Before Storing: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before you plan to store it. 

• • Refrigerator Storage: In an airtight container, the roasted tomato basil soup can last in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure the container is sealed well to keep the flavors fresh.

• • Freezer-Friendly: For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or gently reheat from frozen on the stovetop over medium heat.

• • Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy your soup again, reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it's hot all the way through. If it's too thick, you can add a little broth or water to adjust the consistency. Avoid boiling the soup as it can alter the texture and flavor. You can also use a microwave, heating in short bursts and stirring in between to ensure even heating.