End of Summer Pasta

A quick and easy dish to serve on the side or as a main dish.

Cardiologists are telling us the best diet for maintaining a healthy heart is the Mediterranean Diet. Studies have been done on the benefits of portion controlled foods found most prevalent in the geographic areas known as the Mediterranean. Fish, olives and olive oil, nuts, fresh fruits and vegetables, and wine are laden with things that are good for our hearts. Here is a simple recipe:

Whole grain pasta, follow the package instructions to prepare (we used fettuccine)

1 handful baby heirloom tomatoes per person

3 cloves garlic, peeled and finely minced or crushed

1/3 cup fresh basil, julienned

sea salt (we used French fleur de sel)

Olive oil

Grated Parmesan cheese

To Prepare:

Heat a large saute pan on medium high heat and to the hot pan add 3-4 tablespoons olive oil. Add the garlic and stir into the oil (don't take too long-you don't want the garlic to burn). Add the tomatoes and saute at a high heat for about 4-5 minutes until the tomatoes just begin to crack and soften. Add salt to taste and basil.

Serve over cooked pasta. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan. It's just that easy! This is a very clean, healthy way to eat.

Look at all the plump goodness, ready to serve over pasta.

Now grab a glass of wine and just know you are taking good care of the ole ticker.