Maria's Tomato Sauce and Ziti

  • Yield: 6 servings

"For best flavor, don't omit the fresh basil."

Ingredients

3tablespoons olive oil
1medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 (28-ounce) cans peeled whole tomatoes, undrained
2tablespoons tomato paste
1teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1teaspoon Kosher salt
1pound uncooked ziti or other small pasta
5 or 6 fresh basil leaves, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Working in two batches, place tomatoes in a blender and process 30 seconds or until smooth. Add to onion mixture. Stir in tomato paste, Italian seasoning and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer, uncovered, 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  3. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain well. Serve sauce over pasta and sprinkle with basil. Serves 6.

Maria Campanelli, New Bern, N.C.