Clams Posillipo

Ingredients

• 50 littleneck clams or Manila clams, scrubbed and rinsed of all sand
• (Optional) Soak clams in water with a two tablespoons of cornmeal to purge sand then scrub and rinse
• 28 oz can plum italian tomatoes hand crushed/squeezed to remain chunky
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 1 jiggers dry red wine
• 1 tablespoons dry Italian Seasoning (NOTE: I use 2 tablespoons but taste and add more to desired taste
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
• Salt and pepper