Simple Heirloom Tomato Pasta Sauce

Last night was the beginning of my mini vacation. I am sure many of you are working super hard and long hours. Getting a break to just relax and unwind is so welcoming. I did not have a ton of energy to create an elaborate meal, so I pursued my refrigerator and found the bag of heirloom tomatoes that our friend brought from her garden. Since they were just on the brink of turning too soft to use in a salad, I thought the flavors would be perfect for a quick pasta sauce.

This sauce is not elaborate or complicated, just plain simple but packs a big punch of flavor. The key is to season it well and cook just long enough to form the traditional flavors. I tend to let it cook until the liquid begins to thicken and then it is perfect. I guess if you got impatient, then you could add a tablespoon or two of tomato paste to hurry it along.

During the day an email popped up on my computer and it was titled “Feng-Shui (read – please don’t delete)". Being a curious person and knowing that it was from a trusted friend, I had to open it up and read it. Typically when I get these, I glance and delete. However, this one was different and the message inside really resonated with me and I wanted to share it with all of you. Really basic stuff, but sometimes we get moving so quick with our daily lives, that a little reminder every once in a while is just what we need. Enjoy.

• Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully
• Marry a man/woman you love to talk to. As you get older, their conversational skills will be as important as any other.
• Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want
• When you say, 'I love you,' mean it.
• When you say, 'I'm sorry,' look the person in the eye
• Be engaged at least six months before you get married
• Never laugh at anyone's dreams. People who don't have dreams don't have much.
• Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely.
• In disagreements, fight fairly. No name calling.
• Don't judge people by their relatives.
• Talk slowly but think quickly.
• Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk.
• When you lose, don't lose the lesson.
• Remember the three R's: Respect for self; Respect for others; and Responsibility for all your actions.
• Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.
• When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.
• Smile when picking up the phone - the caller will hear it in your voice
• Spend some time alone.

Simple Heirloom Tomato Pasta Sauce

1.2 Lb. Heirloom Tomatoes, stemmed and diced

1 Small White Onion, fine dice
2 T. Olive Oil
3 Garlic Cloves, minced
Salt and pepper
1 Package (8oz) Linguine Pasta (Trader Joe’s Spinach and Chive)

Over medium heat add the olive oil and onions and sauté until translucent. Add the heirloom tomatoes and cook for about 10 minutes over medium heat then add the minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper and continue to cook for another 15 to 20 minutes on medium low heat. The flavors will combine and the sauce will begin to thicken.

Boil the linguine according to the package instructions. Drain and either add to the sauce or spoon the sauce over the noodles. Garnish with parmesan cheese.