Spicy Italian Pasta all'Arrabbiata

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Crush the garlic cloves, add them to the pan and saute until lightly golden.
3. Add the red pepper flakes and saute for about 30 seconds.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Stir well and let simmer for about 15 - 20 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
5. While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente. Drain, reserving a cup of the pasta water.
6. Add the drained pasta to the sauce, stirring well to coat. If needed, add a few tablespoons of the pasta water to help the sauce adhere to the pasta.
7. Serve hot with a sprinkling of torn basil leaves and a generous grating of Pecorino Romano cheese on top.