wilkes

2 tbsp. olive oil or salad oil
2 lb. pear-shaped tomatoes, coarsely chopped, roma tomatos
1/2 c. lightly packed fresh basil leaves
1/2 c. each reg. strength chicken broth and whipping cream
Salt and pepper

Heat oil in a 3- to 4-quart pan over medium-high heat. Add tomatoes and 1/4 cup of the basil. Cook, stirring often, until tomatoes mash easily (10 to 15 minutes). Transfer mixture to a blender or food processor; add broth and cream. Whirl until smoothly pureed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Reheat to serve hot; or, to serve cold, let cool, then cover and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled or for up to a day. Sliver remaining 1/4 cup basil and sprinkle over individual portions. Makes 4 servings.