Step 1

Wash tomatoes and place in a large bowl, cover with boiling water and let sit for approximately 10 minutes (should be easy to remove the skin, be careful because it is very hot). Remove skin and squeeze out excess water, remove seeds and any white or yellow flesh, cut into small pieces.

Step 2

In a medium-sized high sided frying pan add olive oil, tomatoes, garlic, oregano, salt,  fresh chopped basil leaves and hot pepper flakes if desired .

Step 3

Mix together and then squish gently with a fork, cook uncovered on medium heat till thickened,(while the sauce is cooking occasionally gently squish with a wooden spoon or fork). Simmer for approximately 20 - 25 minutes.

Step 4

While sauce is cooking boil the water, add salt and cook pasta al dente.

Step 5

Add 3 cups of cooked short pasta and 1/2 ladle of pasta water, heat on medium/high heat for a couple of minutes gently tossing.  Serve immediately with freshly grated Parmesan Cheese.  Enjoy!