Why is garlic soup so satisfying? It’s one of the simplest soups to make, and yet it comes out soothing and utterly calming. Some people have chicken soup; I prefer this stuff. Which isn’t to say all are created equal.

This sauce is a nice departure from the standard, hearty, slow-cooked version. The freshness of the ingredients and the piquant spice of the garlic create a nice balance of intense flavors. This recipe is a great way to use up tomatoes that have been lingering in the garden or on the counter for a hair too long. The marinating with all the herbs and oils ‘cooks’ the tomatoes down a little, giving the sauce body and fullness.
This Uncooked Tomato Sauce would also make a great bruschetta topping, dip for flat bread/pita or as the base for a Tuscan soup.

This is one of those go-to weeknight meals that we can throw together with our eyes closed and one hand behind our back. Chewy pasta and gooey cheese are balanced out by a big helping of veggies. Add in a spicy kick and everyone leaves happy. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples at our house, and there’s plenty of flexibility in the recipe to throw in whatever happens to be in season or on hand.

If you’d like to save yourself an extra step, you can actually cook the pasta right in the skillet along with the ragu. Add it in with the tomatoes, along with an extra 1/2 cup of water. The pasta will absorb the flavorful cooking liquid and release starch, making the dish extra creamy!