Tomato Basil Soup

If you like soup, especially tomato soup; then, this is for you. I love tomato soup in any way shape or form. I make soups with a tomato base all the time, especially in fall and winter when the weather is getting colder. This particular soup is time tested in my kitchen and it is the hands down favorite of my family as far as soups go, with the exception of Broccoli Cheese Soup (which is another post entirely).

Enjoy my creation based on a soup we had at a restaurant here in Olympia called O'Blarney's. Those who live here are very familiar with this old favorite, it has been in Olympia for years. While I did not get the total recipe (I was told it was a secret), I had to try to improvise and make it on my own. This is pretty close although there is one thing missing from O'Blarney's soup, but I cannot quite put my finger on it. But, this is close enough and the family loves it, so I will stop with what I have here. Enjoy and be sure to not forget the grilled cheese sandwich when you have this for lunch or dinner.

Tomato Basil Soup

2 Roma tomatoes (chopped)
1 clove garlic (minced or pressed)
1 can of tomato soup plus one can of water
1/2 tsp pepper
2 Tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
1/4 cup parmesan cheese + some extra for garnish on top or if you want extra cheese in the soup
salt to taste

Saute tomatoes and garlic until done, about 3 minutes. Add basil. Stir. Add soup+water and salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes. Add cheese and simmer until melted and incorporated throughout.

Garnish with shredded parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.

*you can substitute milk for water for a creamier soup*