Quick Tomato Sauce

Directions

1. 1
   Pour the San Marzano tomatoes into a bowl and break them up by hand. Discard any hard cores or bits of skin.
2. 2
   Heat the oil in a large pan over moderate heat, add the garlic and saute until golden, about one minute.
3. 3
   Add the tomatoes and their juice carefully. (They will splatter.) Tear the basil leaves in half and add along with the salt. Add the hot pepper (if using).
4. 4
   Simmer briskly, stiring occasionally, until you have a thick chunky sauce. About 15 to 20 minutes.
5. 5
   Remove the garlic before serving.