Fresh Tomato Soup

2 1b Italian plum tomatoes, peeled and quartered
1 medium onion, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
2 C low-sodium chicken broth
1 T no-salt-added tomato paste
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Simmer all ingredients for 30 minutes, breaking up tomatoes with a spoon during cooking. Strain to remove seeds. Serve hot or cold.

Suggestions:

• Six medium tomatoes may be substituted for the plum tomatoes.
• Low-sodium beef broth may be substituted for the chicken broth.
• Leftover soup can be served as a sauce over pasta, meat, or vegetables, or as a topping for savory crêpes.