Balsamic Tomato and Basil Pasta

This tomato sauce is so yummy and flavorful, yet light and healthy. I had thirds, my kids loved it, and my husband--who doesn't love pasta--even "mmmmmm'ed" as he ate. It's also fast and easy, and uses mostly common ingredients! I just had to buy the tomatoes...mmmmm...it was so good. I served it with a link of Italian sausage, but it would be great with chicken or by itself. Serves 8.

Balsamic Tomato and Basil Pasta

1 lb pasta
1 Tbsp olive oil
1/2 small onion, diced
4 cloves garlic
6 vine-ripened tomatoes, diced, or 2-14.5 oz cans diced tomatoes
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/4 c balsamic vinegar
1 c fresh basil leaves
1/4 c Parmesan cheese

1. Boil pasta according to package directions.
2. Meanwhile, heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Saute onions 3 minutes; add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
3. Add tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, vinegar and cover, turning heat to medium-low and simmer 10 minutes, or until tomatoes are soft enough to fall apart. Remove from heat.
4. Strain noodles. Chop basil leaves and add to tomato sauce. Add Parmesan cheese and strained noodles and mix well.