Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the cherry tomatoes whole to the skillet and cook until they burst, about 5-7 minutes.
Season the tomatoes with salt and pepper to taste.
Once the pasta is al dente, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the tomatoes.
Toss the pasta with the tomatoes, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.
Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if using.
Plate the pasta and garnish with additional cherry tomatoes and basil.