Steps
1. Boil water in a pot and add a pinch of salt. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, melt the margarine in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a bit of the pasta water and drain the rest.
5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter, tossing to coat evenly. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.