Budget Cooking: Basic Spaghetti Sauce

2 T. extra virgin olive oil

2 cloves chopped garlic (more or less, to taste)

pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

¾ C. red wine (can substitute chicken or vegetable broth)

1 can (6 oz.) tomato paste

1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes

2 tsp dried basil

2 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp onion powder

½ tsp salt

pepper to taste

Heat olive oil in large skillet and cook chopped garlic on low for 2 to 3 minutes. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, if using. Pour in wine (or broth) and let simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes. Add tomato paste and combine with liquid until smooth. Add crushed tomatoes and dried seasonings. Stir until combined. Cover and simmer at least fifteen minutes.

This sauce can be used for any pasta dish. The seasonings in this recipe can be adjusted to taste. Or, omit the dried seasonings and stir in fresh basil and oregano before serving.

Variations:

Meat Sauce

Brown 1 lb. ground beef, 1 lb. ground turkey, or ½ lb. ground Italian sausage before adding the garlic.

Spinach & Mushroom Sauce:

Add 8 oz. chopped fresh baby spinach and ½ C. chopped mushrooms with the garlic.

Red Pepper Sauce:

Add 1 red pepper, finely chopped with the garlic, or puree the pepper and add with the crushed tomatoes.