Things my M.I.L. Taught Me

My mother-in-law runs a lovely gourmet food shop in the city. It is also a pastificio. Somewhat rare these days.

She is an unbelievable cook and makes everything look so easy. I have been blessed to have had her pass along some of her teachings to little old I can't cook to save my life me.

I'm not so bad at following a recipe but, I really wanted to have a few go-to meals that were quick and simple to prepare for a regular weeknight dinner.

This definitely fits the bill.

Rita's Sugo (red sauce)
Ingredients:

Good olive oil (3-4 tbsp)

3 whole garlic cloves

1 can (475 ml) of Italian chopped tomatoes

Fresh basil

Salt to taste
In a saucepan on low-medium heat, warm olive oil and add garlic cloves. Brown slightly.

Add chopped tomatoes, {I cannot stress the importance of using the BEST QUALITY Italian tomatoes you can find:: price should dictate} 2-3 leaves of fresh basil and salt to taste.

 Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.

Note: if you prefer a "smooth" sauce, at this point you can remove garlic and use a hand blender to puree.

Boil a good quality Italian pasta as directed to ensure it is cooked al dente.

Combine and sprinkle with Parmigiano Reggiano cheese before serving.

Also note: although this recipe looks, and is, quite easy to prepare - it may take you a few tries to get it just so. But once you do, it is the basis for many other amazing dishes...
you will never want jarred sauce again. 

I promise.
Buon Appetito!