Recipe Collection |  Share a Recipe 

Submitted by: Gretchen Ham from Pine City, NY
Originally shared on the web 02/14/2011

1/2 c. butter, sliced
1 c. fresh basil, chopped
2 28-oz. cans crushed tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 pts. half-and-half
salt and pepper to taste
Garnish: croutons, grated Parmesan cheese

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add basil; sauté for 2 minutes. Add tomatoes and garlic; reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat; let cool slightly. Working in batches, transfer tomato mixture to a blender and purée. Strain into a separate saucepan and add half-and-half, mixing very well. Reheat soup over medium-low heat; add salt and pepper to taste. Serve topped with croutons and grated Parmesan cheese. Makes 10 servings