Spicy Tomato Basil Pasta (Arrabbiata-ish)

Ingredients

• 180 g Spaghetti
• 1.5 tbsp Olive oil
• 3 cloves Garlic
• 0.5 tsp Crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 can (400 g) Crushed tomatoes (canned)
• 1 tbsp Tomato paste(optional)
• 0.5 tsp Salt
• 0.25 tsp Black pepper(optional)
• 10 g Fresh basil
• 2 tbsp Parmesan (optional, for serving)(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8–10 minutes; reserve about 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.

2. 2

   While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chili flakes and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant (do not brown).

3. 3

   Stir in crushed tomatoes (and tomato paste if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

4. 4

   Add drained pasta to the sauce and toss well. Loosen with a splash of reserved pasta water until glossy and evenly coated.

5. 5

   Turn off heat and stir in chopped basil. Serve immediately, optionally topped with parmesan.