Spaghetti with Tomato Basil Sauce

Ingredients

• •12 oz spaghetti
• •2 tbsp olive oil
• •4 cloves garlic, minced
• •1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• •1/2 tsp salt
• •1/4 tsp black pepper
• •1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• •1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• •Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. 2

   Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

3. 3

   While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

4. 4

   Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

5. 5

   Stir in the diced tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer the sauce on low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. 6

   Once the pasta is done, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.

7. 7

   Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the tomato sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

8. 8

   Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil just before serving. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.