Ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or pasta of your choice

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or 4 fresh ripe tomatoes,

choppedSalt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)1/4 cup fresh basil leaves,

• chopped (plus extra for garnish)Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

• Drain and set aside.

Prepare the sauce:

• Heat the olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat.

• Add the garlic and cook for approximately a minute, or until fragrant.

• Bring to a simmer after adding crushed tomatoes or freshly chopped tomatoes.

• If using, add red pepper flakes along with salt and pepper.

• Simmer for ten to fifteen minutes, stirring once and then.

Mix:

• Coat the cooked pasta by tossing it in the sauce.

Just before serving

• add the chopped basil and stir.

Serve:

• If preferred, sprinkle additional basil and Parmesan cheese over the spaghetti after plating.