Basil Tomato Soup

I know this has nothing to do with summer, except that I ate it during the summer and it was delicious!

Basil Tomato Soup
Favorite's Recipe
5 strips bacon, diced
1 rib celery, chopped
1/2 c. chopped onion
1 carrot, peeled and diced
1 red pepper, seeded & diced
1 green pepper, seeded & diced
6 fresh basil leaves, chopped (divided)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz.) can chopped tomatoes
2 chicken boullion cubes
1 cup half and half

In large soup pot, cook bacon. Drain all but 1 tablespoon drippings. Add celery, onion, and carrot and cook 2 minutes. Add peppers, half of the basil and garlic, and cook 2 minutes more. Add tomatoes and simmer over medium head for 5 minutes. ADd boullion cubes and stir to dissolve. Transfer soup to blender and puree in batches, then return to soup pot. Add half and half and remaining basil. Simmer over low heat for 45 minutes. Serve with toasted garlic or cheesy bread.