Ingredients
1 package of dried pasta (450 g)
1 can [19 oz] of lentils*
2 pounds of fresh tomatoes, skinned and chopped
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves of garlic, chopped
3 tablespoons of olive oil
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried chillies (optional)
* In Italy dried lentils were used, which, of course, would have been soaked
Directions
For the sauce:
Fry chopped garlic and onions in olive oil. Add chopped tomatoes and cook for about 15 minutes. Add canned lentils and continue to cook for another 8 minutes or so.
Cook pasta according to package directions. Toss with sauce.
Serve warm.
Notes
Lentils were said to bring good fortune, so they were always served on New Year's day. Photo: Mary Melfi. | 
