Curiously Satisfying

Here's one of my favorite starchy side dishes--although with some cheese it will do for a vegetarian main dish. I can't remember where I got the recipe, but I do remember the writer commenting that Italians loved bouillon cubes as a seasoning. I find the 12 cloves of garlic very bracing and restorative.

Penne with Garlic and Tomato Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil

12 cloves garlic, peeled and lightly crushed

1 16-ounce can diced or crushed tomatoes

1/2 bouillon cube

Salt and pepper to taste

In large skillet, saute garlic in olive oil over medium-low heat until pale gold. Add remaining ingredients and simmer together for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook enough penne for two. Drain, toss with sauce, and top with Parmesan cheese.