Creamy Tomato Soup

1-2 c. sliced onions (I buy a bag in the frozen section already chopped, so easy)

1/2 tsp of thyme (or more if you're like me- LOVE thyme)

1/2 tsp of basil

1/2 tsp of oregano

1 garlic clove minced

1/4 cup butter

1/4 cup olive oil

2 cans diced tomatoes

4 TBSP tomato paste

3 3/4 c. chicken broth

1/4 c. flour

1 tsp sugar

salt and pepper to taste

fresh basil, parmesan or asiago for garnish

In a large pot saute onion, thyme, and basil in 1/4 c. butter and 1/4 c. olive oil until onion wilts. Add tomatoes and paste. Simmer 10 min. Slowly add 5 TBSP broth to flour mixing until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in flour mixture. Add remaining broth and return to heat. Simmer 30 min. stirring frequently. Put soup through a blender, use a handheld blender or food processor. Add sugar, salt, and pepper. Can garnish with cheese or cottage cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.