Cream of Tomato Basil Soup

Ingredients

• 1/2 tbs olive oil
• 2 tbs finely chopped shallots
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 (10 1/2 ounce) can condensed chicken broth, fat removed
• 1 cup water
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed or chopped tomatoes
• 1 tbs chopped fresh basil or 1 1/2 tsp dry basil
• Pepper
• 3/4 cup heavy cream

Directions

Heat olive oil in heavy 3- or 4-quart sauce pan. Stir in shallots and garlic and saute over medium heat 2 to 3 minutes, or until softened but not quite browned.

Stir in chicken broth, water, tomatoes and dry basil. If using fresh basil, add it later. Add a few pinches of pepper.

Heat heavy cream about 45 secondsin microwave and stir into tomato mixture. Bring just to a boil; immediately reduce heat and simmer 5 minutes. If using fresh basil, add it now. Do not allow soup to boil once it is added. Serve immediately.