Quick Turkey Ragu
For the Ragu: 2 tablespoons good quality extra virgin olive oil 2 - 3 shallots, peeled and finely chopped ( ¼ cup ) 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped ( 1 tablespoon ) 1 28 - ounce can of good quality tomato puree (I use Muir Glen Organic or San Marzano) 4 tablespoons good quality tomato paste ( half of a 6-ounce can) ½ cup water 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided Optional Garnishes: ½ cup ricotta cheese Freshly grated parmesan cheese (I recommend Parmigiana Reggiano) Fresh basil leaves, slivered or chopped Instructions Make The Tomato Sauce (or skip this step if using store-bought marinara sauce): Heat ¼ cup oil over medium heat, in a heavy pot or Dutch oven, with a lid. Add onions and red pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, to soften the onions. Add 1 tablespoon garlic and cook, stirring, for 1 minute, until fragrant (don't let it brown). Add tomato puree, tomato paste, water and ½ teaspoon of sa...