Imagine this: it’s a chilly evening, and you’re craving something warm, comforting, and healthy. You could reach for a can of soup, but what if you could make a homemade version—one that’s bursting with fresh flavors—without spending hours in the kitchen? The answer is easy: Air Fryer Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup.
This recipe delivers all the warmth and heartiness of traditional soup, but with a modern twist that uses an air fryer to cut down on time and mess. Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this soup checks all the boxes: it’s quick, healthy, and packed with flavor.
In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about making air fryer roasted red pepper and tomato soup, from selecting the best ingredients to tips for customizing the recipe to fit your taste. Let’s dive in!
Why Make Air Fryer Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup?
You might be wondering: Why choose the air fryer for this recipe, and what makes roasted red pepper and tomato soup so special? Let’s break it down:
Quick and Easy
Air fryers are a game-changer when it comes to cooking quickly without sacrificing flavor. By using an air fryer, you reduce your cooking time significantly—especially when it comes to roasting vegetables. Traditional roasting in the oven can take 30-40 minutes, but with the air fryer, you’ll have perfectly roasted red peppers, tomatoes, and onions in just 15-20 minutes. This soup is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade but don’t have the time to spend hours in the kitchen.
Healthier and Lighter
This air fryer soup is much healthier than canned versions, which can be packed with sodium and preservatives. Air frying also uses far less oil compared to frying, meaning you’re getting all the flavor without the extra fat. Plus, the roasted vegetables add natural sweetness and richness, giving you a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down.
Flavor-Packed
Roasting vegetables, especially tomatoes and red peppers, brings out their natural sweetness and intensifies their flavor. When you add those roasted vegetables to the soup base, you’ll create a deep, complex taste that’s hard to beat. The slight smokiness of the roasted red peppers combined with the tangy sweetness of the tomatoes will leave your taste buds begging for more.
What You’ll Need to Make Air Fryer Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup
This recipe's simplicity is what makes it so lovely. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can make a bowl of soup that feels gourmet. Here’s everything you’ll need:
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Red bell peppers | 2 large | Cut in half and deseeded |
| Tomatoes | 4 medium | Halved |
| Onion | 1 small | Quartered |
| Garlic cloves | 4-5 | Unpeeled |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For roasting veggies |
| Vegetable broth | 3 cups | Use low-sodium for healthier option |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | |
| Fresh basil (optional) | 1 tablespoon | For garnish |
| Cream or coconut milk (optional) | ½ cup | For creaminess (optional) |
Ingredient Notes
- Red Bell Peppers: The star of this recipe! Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and smoky flavor.
- Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes add the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. If you want to make this soup extra rich, you can use Roma tomatoes for a thicker consistency.
- Garlic: Roasting garlic brings out its sweetness and mild flavor, adding complexity to your soup without overwhelming it.
- Vegetable Broth: Use vegetable broth to keep the recipe vegan or choose chicken broth if you prefer a richer flavor.
- Cream (optional): For a velvety, creamy soup, feel free to stir in a little heavy cream or coconut milk.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Air Fryer Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the steps to make your air fryer roasted red pepper and tomato soup. The process is simple and efficient, leaving you with a bowl of soup in under 30 minutes!
Step 1 – Roast the Vegetables in the Air Fryer
First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Then, drizzle your red peppers, tomatoes, onion, and garlic cloves with olive oil. This will help them roast evenly and get that delicious golden color.
- Roast the veggies in the air fryer for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the skins of the peppers begin to char and the tomatoes start to soften.
- Pro Tip: Halfway through the roasting time, give the vegetables a little shake to ensure they cook evenly.
Step 2 – Blend the Roasted Vegetables
Once the vegetables are roasted and slightly cooled, it’s time to blend them into a smooth, velvety soup.
- Peel the skins off the garlic and peppers (though if you prefer, you can leave them on for extra flavor).
- Place the roasted vegetables in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth after adding the veggie broth. If you like a chunkier soup, pulse a few times to leave some texture.
- Pro Tip: If you don’t have a blender, you can use an immersion blender directly in your pot for an equally smooth consistency.
Step 3 – Simmer the Soup
Pour the blended vegetables into a large pot or back into the air fryer basket (if your air fryer has a baking pan). If you like a thinner soup, add extra vegetable broth. Let the soup simmer over low heat for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season it to taste with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs you love. This is the moment to adjust the flavors to your liking.
- If you want to make the soup richer, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk. Although optional, this step is strongly advised for that creamy texture!
Step 4 – Serve and Enjoy!
Once your soup has simmered to perfection, it’s ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls, garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy the comforting warmth of your homemade air fryer roasted red pepper and tomato soup.
Variations and Customizations for Your Air Fryer Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup
Its versatility is one of this recipe's finest features. Here are some ideas for customizing it based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Vegan or Dairy-Free Options
To keep your soup vegan or dairy-free, simply omit the cream and use coconut milk or oat milk for a creamy texture. Vegetable broth is naturally vegan, but be sure to check the labels for added ingredients like MSG or dairy.
Add a Spicy Kick
If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or blend in a roasted chili pepper along with the tomatoes and peppers. It’ll give your soup a delightful spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the smoky flavors.
Make It Creamier
For a richer, velvety soup, you can add a generous splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream. Coconut milk also works beautifully if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
The Health Benefits of Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup
This air fryer roasted red pepper and tomato soup isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients.
Nutritional Powerhouses
- Tomatoes are loaded with antioxidants like lycopene, which is known to support heart health and may help prevent certain cancers. They’re also rich in vitamin C and potassium.
- Red bell peppers are a fantastic source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber, which promote healthy skin, boost the immune system, and aid digestion.
By making your own soup, you also have control over the ingredients, which means you can avoid the added sugar and sodium found in store-bought options.
Storing and Reheating Your Soup
Made too much soup? No problem! This recipe keeps well and can be stored for later.
Storing Your Soup
- In the refrigerator: Store your soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- In the freezer: If you want to make a big batch for later, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last up to three months.
Reheating Your Soup
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s hot. If it’s too thick after being stored, just add a little extra broth or water to get it to your desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days, and it freezes well for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use other vegetables for this soup?
Absolutely! You can add zucchini, carrots, or even eggplant to the mix for a unique twist.
Q: How do I make the soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, roasted chili peppers, or a dash of cayenne pepper to bring the heat!
Q: Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, if you omit the cream and use vegetable broth, this recipe is entirely vegan.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Easy, Flavorful Air Fryer Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup
Making air fryer roasted red pepper and tomato soup is not only easy, but it’s also a great way to enjoy a homemade, healthy meal that’s packed with flavor. In under 30 minutes, you can have a warm, comforting bowl of soup that tastes like it’s been slow-cooked for hours, all thanks to the magic of the air fryer.
Whether you're enjoying it on a cold winter night or making a big batch to share with family and friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So, what are you waiting for? Fire up your air fryer and make this delicious soup today!
Ready to try this recipe? Grab your ingredients and your air fryer, and treat yourself to a bowl of comforting, flavorful soup today!