In a thick-bottom pot, heat up the olive oil, the minced onion and a pinch of salt. Sweat the onion until translucent, about 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (for extra heat, add more red pepper flakes). Mix well and sweat the entire mixture a few minutes more. Do not brown. Add the crushed tomatoes and bay leaf. Simmer low for approximately 1 hour. Add chopped parsley, season to taste and serve with meatless meatballs or with your favorite pasta—or both!