- 1 lb (450g) cherry tomatoes, left whole
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or linguine
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste