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Roasted Tomato and Garlic Soup with Barley

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A hearty and comforting roasted tomato and garlic soup with pearl barley, offering deep, naturally sweet flavors and a satisfying, chewy texture. Ideal as a standalone meal or paired with crusty bread.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Roasting, Simmering
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 3 pounds ripe tomatoes (heirloom, Roma, or plum), sliced
  • 1 large head of garlic
  • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1 teaspoon fine salt, plus more to taste
  • 1 medium shallot, finely minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • ⅔ cup pearl barley
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
  2. Arrange sliced tomatoes on a baking sheet. Slice the top off the garlic head to expose cloves and place it on the sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt.
  3. Roast for 30 minutes. Remove garlic and set aside. Roast tomatoes for an additional 5 minutes.
  4. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins. Transfer garlic and tomatoes to a blender and blend until smooth.
  5. In a large pot, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced shallot for 2–3 minutes until soft.
  6. Add the blended tomato mixture and stir. Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle boil.
  7. Add pearl barley. Reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until barley is tender.
  8. Stir in Parmesan cheese, sugar, and salt to taste. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best result.
  • Vegetable broth makes this recipe fully vegetarian.
  • Soup will thicken as it sits; add extra broth when reheating.
  • Optional: Add cream at the end for a richer texture.
  • Use an immersion blender for convenience and less cleanup.

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