Tomato Basil Bisque

• 6 celery ribs, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 med red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/4 C butter
• 44 oz diced tomatoes, do not drain
• 1 T tomato paste
• 3/4 C loosely packed basil leaves, coarsely chopped
• 3 t sugar
• 1/2 t salt
• 1/2 t pepper
• 1 1/2 cream or half & half

1. Saute celery, onion, and pepper in butter. 
2. Add tomatoes and paste. 
3. Bring to a boil. 
4. Cover and simmer for 40 minutes. 
5. Remove from heat. 
6. Add basil, salt, sugar, and pepper. 
7. Cool slightly. 
8. Pureé and add cream. 
9. Heat through and serve.

Yield 6-8 servings