Creamy Tomato Soup

This soup is an instant classic! Very quick and easy to make with canned soup and milk, but the sauteed onions and celery really help to give it that homemade taste!

Ingredients:

- 4 Tablespoons butter

- 1/4 cup chopped onion

- 1/4 cup chopped celery

- 3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour

- 3 cups milk

- 2 teaspoons sugar

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

- 2 cans diced tomatoes, undrained

- chopped basil leaves or grated parmesan, optional

Directions: 

- In a large saucepan, heat butter over medium-low heat. Add chopped onion and celery; cook, stirring, until tender. Stir flour into the vegetable mixture, stirring until well incorporated. Gradually stir in milk and add the sugar, salt, and pepper. Continue to heat, stirring, until the mixture thickens and begins to boil. 

-Dice tomatoes smaller or puree in a blender or processor, if desired. Heat tomatoes in a separate saucepan then gradually add them to the first mixture, stirring constantly. If desired, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or fresh chopped basil leaves. 

- Of course you can always pair this with a grilled cheese for an instant classic!!!