Heat the oil in a saucepan over a low heat. Add the onion, carrot and celery and fry for 8-10 mins until tender, but don’t let them brown too much. Add the passata and tomatoes and bring to the boil. Add the stock, 200ml water and a pinch of sugar, then season and simmer for 20 mins. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning – add more water if you need to. Can be frozen at this point.

Stir in the cream (if using) and the cooked pasta. Spoon into two or three bowls and top with cheese, basil or pesto – or all three.