Tomato Basil and Cheddar Soup

As many people know there is an awesome Tomato Cheese Soup made in Eugene, Oregon at a restaurant called the Glenwood.  I often crave this soup and find myself wishing I could magically have the recipe, but oh no the restaurant is super tight lipped about who even knows the recipe.  So instead of driving to Eugene every time I want this soup I made my own version which resembles it enough to satisfy my cravings.  Speaking of Eugene my boyfriend and I attended a beautiful wedding on Mt. Pisgah Saturday evening, I met a lot of awesome people and we all had a wonderful time.  I will keep this post short because it's Monday and who isn't tired?

Serves 5

The Ingredients

½ yellow onion, chopped

2 tablespoons butter

½ cup of tomato paste

3 cloves garlic, minced

14oz fresh tomatoes, chopped

2 ½ cups water

1 teaspoon sugar

2 tablespoons ketchup

1/2 cup pesto

¾ cup half and half

5oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Salt and pepper

The Process

1.  Brown onion in butter over medium-high heat until slightly browned. Add tomatoes, water, salt, pepper, tomato paste, garlic, sugar, ketchup and pesto. Cook for about 10 minutes.

2.  Use blender to make the soup slightly smooth.  Over medium heat stir in half and half.

3.  Add cheese to soup and stir until just blended.