Step 1

In a large deep fry pan, bring the olive oil to heat. Turn the heat to low, add the crushed garlic and cook for 2 - 3 minutes or until the garlic is fragrant and soft. Stir the garlic quite often to ensure it does not burn. If you are after a more mild garlic flavour, add the garlic as whole cloves and cook for 2 - 3 minutes or until they begin to slightly brown. With a slotted spoon, remove the garlic from the olive oil and set to the side.

Step 2

If using whole tinned tomatoes, squeeze the tomatoes with your hand to slightly puree them.

Step 3

In the same pan, combine the tinned tomatoes, water, a pinch of salt and pepper and ¾ of the basil. Bring to the boil then turn the heat all the way down and leave to simmer for 30 - 40 minutes. Depending on the tinned tomatoes you are using, your sauce may need a little sweetness. Keep tasting your sauce as it cooks and add more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 4

Divide into portions of your choice and serve with pasta or one of my suggested recipes.