Boil Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add heart-shaped pasta and cook until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes: Toss in halved cherry tomatoes and optional red pepper flakes. Cook until the tomatoes soften.

Combine Ingredients: Toss the cooked pasta with the tomato mix in the skillet. Stir in chopped basil and half of the grated Parmesan.

Season: Adjust with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

Serve: Plate the pasta, sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan, and garnish with fresh basil.