Tortellini with Tomato-Kalamata-Artichoke Sauce

Sometimes I just have stuff in my pantry and fridge that I need to get rid of.  That's when creativity usually strikes.  So, why not make a sauce for my tortellini?  This came out super delicious!  You can control the spiciness according to your taste.  I like mine on the really spicy side, so this was quite the treat.  However you like it I'm sure you'll enjoy this delicious sauce.  Enjoy!

Ingredients:

-3 Tbs extra virgin olive oil

-1 large onion, chopped

-4 cloves garlic, minced

-1/8 cup dried basil

-1/2 Tbs dried oregano leaves

-1 Tbs dried parsley

-1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (you can do 1/2 tsp or none, according to your taste)

-1 tsp salt

-1 tsp pepper

-2 (28 oz each) cans crushed tomatoes

-1 (14 oz) jar marinated artichoke hearts

-1 cup kalamata olives, pitted, drained and roughly chopped

-1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

-1 (24 oz) bag 5 cheese tortellini (or whatever kind you like)

Directions:

Heat oil in large saucepan.  Add the onion, garlic, basil, oregano, parsley and pepper flakes.  Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes.  Add salt, pepper and tomatoes.  Give it a good stir, cover and simmer on low for 30 minutes (stirring occasionally).

Meanwhile, drain the artichokes in a bowl.  This should give you about 1/2 cup marinade.  Do not throw it away!  Also, go ahead and roughly chop the artichokes.

After the 30 minutes of simmering, add the artichoke marinade to the pan.  Stir and cook, covered, for another 10 minutes.

Toss in the chopped artichokes, cover and cook for 5 more minutes. Add the olives and cheese.  Give it a good stir and cook for 2-3 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook tortellini according to package directions.  Drain and toss with the sauce.  Serve and enjoy!