In a cold saucepan, combine olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, oregano, and basil.
Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for about 1 minute until everything is fragrant. Don't let the garlic brown.
Add in tomatoes, simmer for 5 minutes, and then remove from heat.
Now for the trick from 101 Cookbooks, stir in lemon zest. I think this is the ingredient that makes the sauce slightly tangy and tastes so bold and fresh! Yum!
Pour this spicy marinara over pasta or grilled vegetables.
Notes
It makes a great sauce for pizza and calzones...and also amazing spicy meatball subs! So many delicious meals from a can of tomatoes!