Step 1

Place garlic cloves on a board and with the flat side of a knife press the cloves to slightly crush them. Remove the skins. Set aside.

Step 2

Chop the onion very finely or alternatively mince the onion. Set aside.

Step 3

In a cold skillet, add extra virgin olive oil and cracked, peeled garlic.

Step 4

Place the skillet over medium heat, allowing the garlic to simmer and become pale gold stirring regularly. Don’t let the garlic burn! Remove the garlic and discard.

Step 5

Add the very finely chopped or minced onion to the garlic flavored oil and cook over medium heat for 5-8 minutes, stirring regularly. Allow the onion to soften but not color beyond golden. Check the cooking of the onion closely and adjust the temperature if you need to.

Step 6

Add the pureed tomatoes, a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. At this stage don't add any water - you can always add some later if needed.

Step 7

Reduce to low heat and simmer gently uncovered for 20 minutes until slightly thickened. In the last 5 minutes stir in chopped basil. Taste for salt and adjust as desired.

Step 8

Delicious stirred through al dente pasta and topped with parmesan cheese!