Add the tomatoes and stir to combine with the garlic. If using whole tomatoes, use the side of a wooden spoon to roughly cut them up.
Add 2 tsp., of salt, pepper, and red pepper. Stir occasionally.
Add the basil and combine it with the sauce.
Assembling
Drain the pasta, reserving some of the pasta water.
Add the drained pasta to the sauce in the skillet, and toss the pasta with tongs to coat with sauce. Add the cheese at this point if you want it combined with the sauce. (I serve it as a garnish)
Use pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time if you choose to thin the sauce.
Garnish with grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil.