Spicy Tomato Basil Bisque

1.Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

2.Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pot and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

3.Pour in the whole peeled tomatoes, including their juice, and break them up with a wooden spoon. Stir in the vegetable broth.

4.Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5.Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender, then return it to the pot.

6.Stir in the heavy cream and chopped fresh basil leaves. Add sugar, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

7.Simmer the bisque for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.

8.Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish each serving with grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves.