1/2 c. olive oil
3 cloves garlic, chopped (more if you really like garlic!)
8 lbs. ripe tomatoes (fresh only!), chopped in lg. chunks
3 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 c. chopped, fresh basil
1 med. can tomato paste (lg. can if you like it thicker)
1 1/2 lb. Italian sausage (optional)

Saute the garlic and olive oil in a large pot until tender, but not brown. Add the chopped tomatoes. Add the chopped basil, tomato paste and seasonings. Simmer on low heat for 1 hour. If you are adding the Italian sausage, brown the sausage using olive oil in a skillet and then add directly to the pot of sauce. Serve over pasta with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, crusty Italian bread and a garden salad.