Basic Tomato Sauce

This easy-to-make sauce is a simple option for a homemade meal for two, or even for eight. With things anyone can get at the grocery store it doesn't take a master chef to nail this recipe.

Classic Tomato Sauce (serves 4)

Ingredients:

• 28 oz can of whole peeled tomatoes

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1/2 onion, chopped

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped fresh basil

Directions:

1. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes then add garlic until lightly browned and fragrant.

3. Add the canned tomatoes, including their juices, and use a wooden spoon or potato masher to break them up into smaller pieces.

4. Add the salt and black pepper, and stir to combine.

5. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook, occasionally stirring, for 30 minutes.

6. this is the point where you could add the red pepper flakes or the basil. if using a large sprig of fresh basil make sure to remove it from the sauce before serving

7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

8. Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta and enjoy