Spicy Tomato Garlic Pasta

Ingredients

• 180 g Spaghetti (or linguine)
• 400 g Crushed tomatoes
• 4 cloves Garlic
• 0.5 tsp Red chili flakes
• 1.5 tbsp Olive oil
• 0.5 tsp Salt
• 0.25 tsp Black pepper
• 0.25 cup Fresh basil (or cilantro)(optional)
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks, mince the garlic. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, then sauté garlic and chili flakes for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

3. 3

   Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

4. 4

   Add drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. If needed, loosen with a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir in lemon juice and top with fresh basil (or cilantro). Serve immediately.