Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs. of ripe tomatoes remove seeds, peeled and chopped
• 2 Tablespoons of Olive Oil
• 1 Onion chopped
• 1 Clove of garlic crushed
• 1 Small red pepper chopped (optional)
• 4 Cups of chicken or vegetable stock
• 2 oz of tomato paste
• 1/4 cup of Basil
• 1 Cup of pasta (Shells)

Instructions

1. Heat the oil in a heavy pan, cook the onion, garlic and red pepper till soft.

2. Add the tomato and cook another 10 minutes.

3. Add the tomato paste, salt and pepper to taste.

4. Cover and let simmer for 15 minutes.

5. Allow to cool slightly and put the mixture in a blender until it is smooth.

6. Return to the pan and heat gradually.

7. In boiling water, cook the pasta till almost done.

8. Add the pasta.

9. Add the fresh basil, cook 2 minutes and serve.