Still in the spirit of 'simplify', it has been a month since I've stopped hoarding pantry items. I've been cooking a lot more now that the weather is cooler and I am spurred on by the challenge of using only what is in my pantry. Naturally I still have to buy dairy, meat, and produce, but NO pantry items. It wouldn't be so challenging if we didn't have a 6 and a 7 year old. Our 7 year old has just recently begun wanting to try new flavours, yay! Our 6 year old who would eat whatever we gave her the first 5 years of life, has developed a penchant for finickiness. Granted, it is a very refined finickiness. Our 6 year old prefers uncomplicated fresh flavours prepared simply. Sounds like our 6 year old has suddenly become a snooty chef! Truth be told, I have a marked preference for uncomplicated, good quality, fresh food prepared simply too.

Pantry Marinara

1 can of good Italian tomatoes. I buy them whole and crush them with my hands not to impart a metallic flavour from food processor/blender blades.
4 tbsp of good olive oil
1 level tbsp of freeze-dried basil (half a teaspoon if I use the basil sold in the spices aisle)

Simmer over a low heat for about 90 minutes if you don't need it right away or, cook it on medium for 20-30 minutes when you need it quick, but you have to watch it the whole time. I season to taste once cooked because if I add the salt at the beginning, the reduction process results in a salty sauce.

Use it on anything.