Fancy Tomato Soup

Serves 6.

Ingredients:
2 T olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 celery stalked, chopped
1 carrot, diced
1 28 oz. can whole tomatoes
1 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
1/2 small can tomato paste
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup half and half or cream
Sea salt and black pepper to taste

In large soup pot, heat oil over low-medium heat and cook vegetables until soft. Add tomatoes and broth and simmer until veggies are very tender, around 15 minutes. Remove 1/3 of the soup to a blender, allow to cool somewhat, and puree. Add puree back into soup. (If you prefer a chunky texture, omit this step.) Add seasonings and cream, re-warm soup and serve.

Excellent served with grilled cheese sandwiches or cheesy garlic toasts.

Vegetarians: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.