A simple and classic Italian pasta dish made with spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.

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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced garlic and cook until golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the red pepper flakes and stir for a few seconds.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss to combine and coat the pasta in the garlic oil mixture.
Season with salt to taste and stir in chopped parsley.
Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.