Budget Pasta Sauce

In keeping with a previous post where I mentioned that pasta shows up on our dinner table often in view of living within the economy, this is an easy way to produce the sauce and save a trip to the store. I usually try and stock up when tomato products are on sale as they come in every handy for dinner time emergencies! If you like, you can even puree this (except for the fresh Basil) and have tomato soup. Add some cheesy croutons and pasta and it could be a meal in a bowl! Quick Pasta Sauce 1 tablespoon olive oil 8 garlic cloves, peeled, smashed, and chopped 28-ounce can of diced tomatoes 1 small can of tomato paste Salt & pepper to taste Pinch of chili flakes 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning Freshly chopped Basil (You can use dry if no fresh is available) Saute the prepared garlic in the olive oil until the garlic is softened but not browned. Add the rest of the ingredients except for the fresh Basil. Bring to a boil and immediately reduce the heat and simmer about 10-15 minutes. Stir in the Basil and serve over hot pasta. This sauce also works for making lasagna, ziti, and other Italian dishes. I like it over grilled, boneless chicken with a generous grating of Romano cheese.