Cart Driver’s Pasta

Pasta alla Carrettiera, translated as Cart Driver’s pasta, attributes its humble beginning to the ease in which it could be prepared by cart drivers while travelling. No cooking was required for the sauce, and a simple campfire was set up to cook the pasta.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti

• 6 large ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red chili

• Sea salt

• Grated pecorino cheese or ricotta salata (salted)

Directions:

1. Bring a large pot of water to boil then add salt.

2. As soon as the water returns to a full boil, add the spaghetti and stir.

3. Combine the tomatoes, garlic, basil, chili and olive oil in a large bowl and mash together.

4. Salt to taste.

5. Toss in the drained pasta, then stir. Serve with grated cheese.