Tomato Basil Pasta with Parmesan

Ingredients

• Pasta (12 ounces (spaghetti or your choice))
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons)
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
• Fresh tomatoes (4 cups, diced (preferably roma or vine-ripened))
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh basil (1 cup, chopped (plus extra for garnish))
• Parmesan cheese (1 cup, freshly grated (plus extra for serving))
• Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon (optional for heat))

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining and set the pasta aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
3. Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
4. Season the tomato mixture with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to combine with the tomatoes and garlic. If the mixture seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil, allowing it to wilt slightly from the residual heat.
7. Serve the pasta in bowls, topped with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional basil for garnish.