Mimi's Tomato Basil Bisque

2 T olive oil
1 lg clove garlic, finely chopped
1/4 c onion, finely chopped
1/4 t red pepper flakes
salt and pepper to taste
12 lg basil leaves, finely chopped
garden fresh tomatoes
1c of heavy cream (or substitute half and half, or whole milk plus 2T butter)

~saute the garlic, onion and red pepper flakes in the olive oil until soft but not browned.
~in the meantime, put enough fresh tomatoes in the vitamix and blend to make 4 cups of puree.
~add the tomato puree and the salt and pepper to the pot and simmer on low for 30".
~slowly pour about half of the cooked puree into the cream, stirring constantly.
~add the cream and tomato mixture back to the pot and bring back to simmer.
~stir in the basil.
~serve with grilled cheese, of course.

serves 2-4
mimi's recipe