Ingredients:
1 lb thick strand pasta ( such as linguine or fettuccini)
1 pinch brown sugar
1/4 cup good-quality balsamic vinegar
2 lbs tomatoes, chopped
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil ( a flavored oil might be nice here)
2 -3 teaspoons fresh garlic, finely minced
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes ( to taste)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup loosely-packed fresh basil leaves
fresh parmesan cheese, shaved or grated (optional)
Directions:
Cook pasta to al dente, according to package directions. Drain and return pasta to pot.
In a large bowl, dissolve brown sugar in the balsamic vinegar. Add the chopped tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, crushed red pepper, and salt.
Add the drained cooked pasta to the bowl of sauce and mix to coat thoroughly, making sure that the tomatoes are evenly distributed.
Tear the basil into pieces, add to the pasta mixture, toss and serve. If using, top each serving with the parmesan cheese.
Servings: 4
Time preparation: 15 min.
Time total: 30 min.