Tastes like summa time

Don't you love those home cooked meals that are so good you leave it on the stove for three hours after dinner to "let it cool", then nibble it every time you pass by until your husband and dog are eyeing you like a fatty and you have to forego your evening workout because you can't move? I do. :) Especially when the ingredients are fresh, organic, local and in season, 'cause they're oh so tasty and better for you. I'm referring to summer corn chowder. Yes, I realize that my local forecast is a sunny 108 degrees, but if you can forget that minor detail you'll be good to be go! ;)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (I used coconut oil)
• 2 tablespoons butter (I didn't use that much)
• 1 large onion
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 5 cups vegetable broth
• 2 russet potatoes
• 4 cups fresh corn kernels (approximately 8 ears of corn)
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper (ew)
• 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper (ew)
• salt to taste
• ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup half & half
• 2 plum tomatoes, seeded, for garnish
• thinly slivered basil leaves, for garnish

Place the oil and butter in a pot over low heat.

Add the diced onion until its transparent.

Sprinkle in flour; cook, stirring, for about five minutes.

Add the broth and potatoes; bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to medium and cook partially covered for 10 minutes.

Add the corn, peppers if you like those things, and half & half; cook over low heat for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Top generously with garnishes and serve with a glass of sweet iced tea.

Summa time in the midwest at its best:)