Stanley Tucci shares his effortless homemade tomato sauce recipe, emphasizing simplicity and versatility. He recommends using fresh cherry tomatoes, which can be deseeded easily by squeezing them after soaking in water, then sautéing with aromatics like Tropea onions and garlic in olive oil. He adds canned whole tomatoes, basil, and salt, then simmers the mixture, blending it with an immersion blender if necessary. Tucci suggests finishing with olive oil and extra basil, and highlights the sauce’s adaptability for various dishes, including shrimp, peas, or sautéed guanciale. In a different culinary highlight, Tucci introduces Ina Garten, the Barefoot Contessa, to a classic cocktail—the martini—on her show 'Be My Guest.' Garten, known for her approachable cooking style, had never tried a martini until Tucci prepared a shaken version garnished with olives. Her initial expectation was that it would taste strongly of alcohol, but after tasting Tucci’s expertly mixed drink, she found it 'totally gorgeous' and appreciated its nuanced flavor. The article explains the origins of the martini, dating back to the 1800s, with variations including gin or vodka as the base spirit. It discusses the debate between shaken or stirred, with shaken martinis aerating the drink for a lighter texture, and stirred ones offering a bolder flavor. Ultimately, the perfect martini depends on personal preference. Tucci’s recipes and insights reflect his Italian-American background and culinary expertise, emphasizing that simple, high-quality ingredients can create flavorful dishes. His tomato sauce recipe is versatile for many dishes, and his introduction of the martini to Garten highlights his influence in elevating traditional recipes. Both recipes underscore the importance of simplicity and quality in home cooking.