Bon Jovi, Timeouts, and the Best Italian Sauce Recipe
So…when we would go in the car, I’d control the CD Player and blast Bon Jovi through the speakers.
Now, it’s become sort of a joke at my house.
Li’l Man sometimes has to go to time-out… this translates to “sit by Mom and listen to ‘X’ amount of Bon Jovi songs.”
It’s brutal I know, but I’m the Mom.
It’s provided great entertainment for me.
Once after three songs, Li’l Man uttered, “Just think. Somewhere out there a girl is listening to Justin Bieber and has no idea how it’s going to affect her kids.”
Another time, when the punishment was the ENTIRE album, he asked, “Mom, where did you learn about Bon Jovi?”
I explained, “When I was sixteen, my friend, Harvey, introduced me to his music.”
When the next song came on Li’l Man said, “Well played, Harvey. Well played.”
At our house we “clean like Bon Jovi’s coming”.
The kiddos know this means it’s serious.
I tell them to clean like Bon Jovi’s knocking on the door in 30 minutes.
They rush to clean their rooms because should it *really* happen and their room is the sty that sends him back out the door… well, no one wants to have to live with that and Mom.
Now, we’re cooking Bon Jovi style.
To some, this translates to Italian.
Whatever works.
It all started when Rachel posted her Quick and Easy Italian Sauce Recipe.
I decided to throw caution to the wind.
My husband’s first love is Italian, and for years, he raved about her sauce.
One day, he asked if I knew how to make sauce. I said, “Yup!”
He asked, “Will you make me some?”
“Nope!”
“Why is that?” He questioned.
“I’ve been told you already had the best sauce EVER; why would I try?” I retorted.
Well, last Sunday was the day that he ate crow.
With Rachel’s help, I made dinner Bon Jovi Style… I followed the direction.
I even paid attention, telling my husband I’d be back in a few minutes to stir the sauce in 10 minutes.
He did and left me this as a token of his contribution:
I didn’t let it deter me.
The house was filled with delicious aromas and the sauce was finished.
Oh, how beautiful its color is:
Then came the moment when I’d claim the title and rid myself of my husband’s ex’s sauce for good!
Try this recipe. It’s amazing! It’s delicious!
Quick and Easy Italian Sauce Recipe
Prep Time:
Cook Time:
Total Time:
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, stir well.
- Add oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar if using.
- Bring sauce to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve over pasta or use as desired.
Tips for the Best Sauce
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Simmer slowly to develop rich flavors.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I freeze this sauce?
- Yes! This sauce freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Is this sauce suitable for vegetarian diets?
- Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
- Can I add meat?
- Yes, brown ground beef or sausage and add it to the sauce for a meatier version.
Enjoy your homemade Italian sauce! Don’t forget to share your results in the comments below.