Tomato Cheddar Soup - South Beach Diet Recipe (Phase 2)

Ingredients >

3 whole fresh tomatoes
1 stalk celery, diced
3 cups chicken stock
2 scallions, minced
1 cup half-and-half
1 teaspoon ground basil
1/4 teaspoon onion salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
8 ounces Cheddar cheese, shredded

Directions
1 Combine tomatoes, and celery in food processor and blend until coarsely chopped.
2 Pour into large saucepan, add chicken stock and scallions, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes.
3 Add half-and-half. Season with basil, salt, and pepper. Cook over very low heat for five minutes. Add cheese and cook, stirring constantly, until cheese melts. Serve at once.