Pasta with Spicy Tomato Sauce

Step 1

Begin heating a large pot of water for the pasta.

Step 2

Pulse the chopped tomatoes in a food processor fitted with the steel blade, or pass through the medium blade of a food mill with their juice before you begin. Heat the oil over medium heat in a large, wide nonstick skillet or saucepan and add the garlic and crumbled chili (or flakes). Cook, stirring, for 30 seconds to a minute, until the garlic is translucent and begins to smell fragrant, and add the tomatoes and their juice, salt, and oregano if using. Stir and turn up the heat. When the tomatoes begin to bubble, lower the heat to medium and cook, stirring often, until thick and fragrant, 15 to 25 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings. Keep warm while you cook the pasta.

Step 3

When the pasta water comes to a boil, add a tablespoon of salt and the pasta. Cook the pasta al dente, following the timing instructions on the package but checking a minute or two before the time on the package. When the pasta is done, transfer to the pan with the sauce, add the basil if using, and toss together over medium heat until it is well coated with the sauce. Add half the cheese, toss together and serve, passing the remaining cheese at the table.