Ingredients

Makes 6 servings

　　6 very ripe medium-sized tomatoes (about 8 ounces each)

　　4 large cloves of garlic, finely chopped

　　1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

　　1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves

　　2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest

　　1 teaspoon sugar

　　Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

　　12 ounces dried farfalle (butterfly pasta)

　　Salt, to taste

　　6 ounces ricotta salata cheese (optional garnish)

　　

Step 1

1. Core the tomatoes and cut them into 1/2-inch pieces. Place in a large serving bowl with the garlic. (If the tomatoes seem watery, drain them first in a colander for 20 minutes, tapping it once or twice.)

　　

Step 2

2. Stir in olive oil, 1/4 cup of the mint, the lemon zest, sugar, and pepper. Let rest for 2 to 4 hours for flavors to blend.

　　

Step 3

3. Before serving, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just tender; drain. Add to the tomato sauce; toss well. Before serving, season lightly with salt. If desired, grate ricotta salata atop the pasta using the largest holes of the grater. Sprinkle with the remaining chopped mint. Serve.

　　

Nutrition Per Serving

Per serving (with the cheese): 447 calories

　　65g carbohydrates

　　14g protein

　　15g fat

　　14mg cholesterol.

　　#### Nutritional analysis provided by New Wellness

　　Richmond

　　Va.