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Air Fryer Roast Tomato and Sweet Pepper Soup - Simple, Cozy, and Full of Flavor

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds ripe tomatoes (Roma or vine-ripened), halved or quartered
  • 2 large sweet bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), seeded and sliced into thick strips
  • 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika if you prefer milder flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
  • 1–2 teaspoons sugar or honey (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 3–4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (start with 3 and add more to thin)
  • 1–2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or sherry vinegar
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Method
 

  1. Prep the veggies: Add tomatoes, peppers, onion, and garlic to a large bowl. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano until evenly coated.
  2. Air fry in batches if needed: Arrange the vegetables in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 14–18 minutes, shaking halfway, until edges are charred and tomatoes look collapsed.
  3. Deglaze the flavor: If your air fryer has a tray with browned bits, carefully scrape them into the pot—they add a lot of flavor.
  4. Simmer briefly: Transfer roasted vegetables to a pot. Add 3 cups of vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer for 5–7 minutes to meld flavors.
  5. Balance the acidity: Stir in vinegar and, if needed, a teaspoon of sugar or honey to round out the tomatoes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  6. Blend until smooth: Use an immersion blender to puree until silky. For extra smoothness, blend in a countertop blender in batches. Add more broth to reach your preferred consistency.
  7. Make it creamy (optional): Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk. Warm through without boiling to prevent curdling.
  8. Finish and serve: Ladle into bowls and top with fresh basil or parsley. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of yogurt if you like.