Aglio e Olio

1-cup olive oil
5 garlic cloves, slivered
Salt and black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
1. Boil water for spaghetti and start cooking about 1/2 pound.
2. Using a medium-sized heavy skillet, heat the oil until warm. Add the garlic and simmer slowly for about 5 minutes or until the garlic is golden. Do not burn. You may remove the garlic at this point or leave it in if you like a strong garlic flavor.
3. Add the salt, black and red pepper, parsley and basil. Let simmer about 5 minutes to blend flavors. Add some of the hot pasta water to the skillet and let slightly boil about 3 minutes. Add to cooked spaghetti (al dente) and serve immediately.