Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until the garlic is golden brown.

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic oil. If needed, add reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.

Season with salt to taste and garnish with chopped parsley and optional ingredients like Parmesan cheese before serving.