September marks the official passing of summertime and our tomato bounty, so we’re using them as often as we can. If you find yourself with an abundance of tomatoes, this super quick sauce will put an instant smile on your face!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh tomato
• garlic cloves, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic (optional)
• salt and pepper to taste

Method

Remove the skin from tomatoes. You can see a guide to removing skin from fruits and vegetables here. Squeeze the tomatoes to release extra juice and place the pulp of the tomato into a bowl. Use your hands to crush them and break them into small chunks.

In a large sauce pan, add olive oil, chopped garlic and the tomato pulp. The juices will sink to the bottom. Let it cook for about 3 minutes and then remove the pulp with a slotted spoon. Set aside. Allow the juices to cook more, until they reach a thicker consistency. Add red pepper flakes (if you like a spicier taste!) Once a thick paste-like consistency arises add the previously removed pulp. Stir well. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, salt and pepper to taste. Add to your favorite pasta and enjoy!