Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ to 1 cup of pasta water, then drain pasta.

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the garlic butter for 1-2 minutes. If too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time.

Sprinkle in sea salt and black pepper, and add Parmesan cheese if using. Mix well and add chopped herbs. Serve immediately.