Tomato Soup

Ingredients:

• 6 large tomatoes, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté onions and garlic until onions are translucent.
3. Add chopped tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add chicken or vegetable broth and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Remove bay leaf and let soup cool for a few minutes.
7. Puree soup in a blender or with an immersion blender until smooth.
8. Return soup to pot and stir in chopped basil.
9. If desired, stir in heavy cream for a creamier soup.
10. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious tomato soup!