1 tbsp. oil
2 cloves garlic
1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
1 (6 oz.) can tomato paste
1 (15 oz.) can water (use empty sauce can)
1 tbsp. sugar
1 1/2 tsp. oregano
1/2 tsp. sweet marjoram
1/2 tsp. sweet basil
1/8 tsp. baking soda
1 lb. ground beef, browned and drained (optional)

Peel garlic cloves and slice them thinly, add to olive oil in pan. Sauté over low heat, careful not to burn it. When it's a light tan color (and before it turns dark and you have to throw everything away and start all over) add the remaining ingredients. Simmer while preparing the pasta. Spoon over pasta in serving dish and top with shredded Parmesan cheese.

Submitted by: Sybil Kay