"Radical Ryan" Mezzi Rigatoni with Red Clam Sauce

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/world/2012/0813/1224322099833.html

http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/obama-campaign-well-versed-in-matchup-against-radical-ryan/2012/08/11/efde1606-e3b7-11e1-a25e-15067bb31849_story.html

Is Ryan radical, or is he bold?  Do his policies epitomize disdain for the poor and reverence for the wealthy, or is his presence on the ticket likely to shift what had degenerated into a petty and nasty campaign to substantive issues about the size and role of the federal government, taxation and social spending?

"Radical Ryan" Mezzi Rigatoni with Red Clam Sauce

A bold and substantial pasta dish.

2 Tbsp. olive oil
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup dry white wine
3 cans (6.5 oz. each) minced clams, drained, liquid reserved
1 can (28 oz.) whole peeled tomatoes
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. sugar
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
1 lb. mezzi rigatoni
10 basil leaves, chopped
Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Bring large pot of water to a boil for pasta.

While water is heating, heat oil in separate sauce pot on medium heat.  Add garlic; cook and stir 2 minutes or until tender (do not brown).  Add wine and clam juice.  Bring to a boil and cook on medium high heat 10 minutes or until reduced by half.  Add tomatoes and their juice.  Puree mixture using immersion blender.  Stir in salt, sugar and red pepper flakes.  Bring to a boil.

Cook sauce on medium heat 10 minutes or until slightly thickened and reduced.  Meanwhile, cook pasta as directed in boiling water.  Stir clams and basil into sauce.  Drain pasta, then toss with sauce in serving bowl.  Serve with Parmesan cheese.

Note:
If you can't find mezzi rigatoni, substitute 1 lb. of your favorite pasta.