While I may not know my way around the kitchen, I have learned a thing for two from my father’s mother, one of the most amazing Italian chefs in the world. Nonna, as a I call her, is nearly 96 years old, but acts like she is 20. She volunteers at the local hospital, babysits her great-grandchildren, tends her own garden and still has time to teach me to cook like an old-world Italian. Add Italian sausage or meatballs to this Marinara Sauce recipe for an extra kick. Let’s go Nibblin’ with Nonna. Mangia Mangia!

Nonna’s Marinara Sauce

Ingredients:
1 chopped onion
4 chopped garlic cloves
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 1/2 tsp dried basil
1 1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 lbs fresh tomatoes
1/2 cup parmesan or romano cheese

1. Chop tomatoes into small pieces
2. Melt butter and heat oil in a skillet over medium hieat
3. Add garlic cloves and onion and stir until tender
4. Add tomatoes, basic, oregano, salt and pepper
5. Bring to a boil and reduce heat. Simmer for 20 to 30 minutes.
6. Cook pasta according to package directions.
7. Serve sauce over hot cooked pasta and sprinkle with cheese for added flavor.