2 1/2 c. all purpose flour
1 1/2 tbsp. sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
3/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/8 tsp. pepper
2 eggs
3/4 c. plus 2 tbsp. shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 1/2 tsp. chopped basil
1 c. finely chopped seeded tomatoes
6 tbsp. butter, melted
1 tbsp. tomato paste

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 9 x 5 x 3 inch loaf pan. Sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, baking soda, and pepper into large mixing bowl. Stir in 3/4 cup cheese and basil. Combine tomatoes, tomato paste, eggs, and butter in medium size bowl; stir together to combine. Make well in center of dry ingredients; stir in the tomato ingredients until dry ingredients are moistened and just combined. Do not over mix. Shape into prepared pan. Smooth top.

Bake in preheated 350 degree oven for 35-40 minutes until cake tester inserted in center comes out clean. After 30 minutes, sprinkle the 2 tablespoons cheddar on top. Cool in pan on rack. Invert and remove from pan. Serve warm or at room temperature. Also good toasted and buttered.