Salami Spaghetti Recipe - Cilantro Parsley (2024)

Published: Sep 14, 2020 · Modified: Jul 30, 2023 by Maxine Dubois · This post may contain affiliate links Leave a Comment

Welcome to our culinary journey through the vibrant streets of Italy, where we indulge in the rich, traditional flavors of one of their beloved pasta dishes – my Salami Spaghetti Recipe! This delightful combination of al dente spaghetti, savory salami, and a medley of aromatic ingredients will transport your taste buds to the heart of Italy's culinary heritage.

Prepare to immerse yourself in the delightful aromas of sautéed onions and garlic, the sweet tanginess of cherry tomatoes, and the comforting allure of a velvety tomato sauce. But the star of the show, the ingredient that adds that unforgettable twist, is the delectable salami – adding a touch of sophistication and depth to this classic dish.

The preparation of Salami Spaghetti is relatively simple and quick, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when you crave a comforting and flavorful meal without much effort. The ingredients are easily accessible, making it a popular choice for home cooks and pasta enthusiasts alike.

If you love this recipe, you need to try my Puttanesca Pasta Recipe or my Pink Sauce Pasta Recipe.

What is Salami Spaghetti?

This Salami Spaghetti Recipe is a flavorful and hearty pasta dish that combines classic Italian spaghetti with slices or diced salami, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile. It is a fusion of traditional Italian cuisine with the distinct taste of salami, which adds a savory and slightly spicy element to the dish.

The dish typically includes other staple Italian ingredients like onion, garlic, cherry tomatoes, tomato sauce, and basil, all of which come together to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. The onions and garlic are sautéed to build a flavorful base, while the cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and color. The tomato sauce binds all the ingredients together, resulting in a rich and robust sauce that coats the spaghetti perfectly.

Why you will love this recipe

• Bold and Unique Flavor: The addition of salami brings a distinctive and delightful twist to the classic spaghetti dish. The savory, slightly spicy notes of the salami perfectly complement the sweet cherry tomatoes and the rich tomato sauce, creating a flavor combination that will leave you wanting more.
• Easy and Quick to Make: This recipe is surprisingly simple and quick to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or when you're craving a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Aromatic and Aesthetically Pleasing: As you sauté the onions and garlic, the enticing aroma will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a delicious dining experience. The colorful cherry tomatoes and fresh basil garnish add a visual appeal that makes this dish look as good as it tastes.

Salami Spaghetti Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Salami
• Spaghetti
• Onion
• Garlic
• Cherry tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Basil
• Salt and pepper

See recipe card for my Salami Spaghetti Recipe quantities.

How to make Salami Spaghetti

Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. Saute the onions and garlic: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.

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Cook the salami: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the salami in a single layer, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside on a plate lined with paper towel.
Sauté the onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.

Add the salami and cherry tomatoes: Add the sliced or diced salami to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the salami starts to release its flavor. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they soften slightly.
Pour in the tomato sauce: Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet with the sautéed ingredients. Mix everything well and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Season the sauce: Add salt and pepper to taste. Keep in mind that the salami can be quite salty, so adjust the seasoning accordingly. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and the salami mixture is distributed throughout.

Hint: When boiling the spaghetti, cook it al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a slight firmness when bitten. Overcooking the pasta can result in a mushy texture.

What to serve with Salami Spaghetti

• Garlic Bread: A classic and popular choice to serve with pasta dishes, garlic bread pairs perfectly with Salami Spaghetti. It's crispy, buttery, and infused with the rich flavor of garlic.
• Side Salad: A fresh and crisp side salad balances the richness of the pasta. Consider a simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
• Antipasto Platter: Create a colorful antipasto platter with an assortment of Italian cured meats, cheeses, olives, marinated vegetables, and breadsticks. This provides a variety of flavors and textures to enjoy alongside the pasta.
• Bruschetta: Serve some bruschetta as a tasty appetizer or side dish. The combination of toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil complements the Italian flavors of the pasta.

Substitutions

• Onion and Garlic: Replace the onion and garlic with shallots or leeks. Shallots have a milder flavor compared to onions, while leeks offer a slightly sweet and onion-like taste.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Instead of cherry tomatoes, you can use regular tomatoes that are chopped or canned diced tomatoes. Sun-dried tomatoes (rehydrated if using dried ones) can also be a flavorful alternative.
• Tomato Sauce: If you don't have tomato sauce on hand, you can use canned crushed tomatoes or tomato puree. Alternatively, you can make a quick tomato sauce by blending fresh tomatoes with a bit of water until smooth.
• Basil: Substitute basil with other fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, or thyme, depending on your preference. Each herb will impart its distinct flavor to the dish.

Salami Spaghetti Recipe Variations

• Spicy Salami Spaghetti: If you enjoy some heat in your dishes, opt for a spicy salami variety or add red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions and garlic. The spicy kick will add an extra dimension of flavor to the dish.
• Salami and Mushroom Spaghetti: Enhance the umami factor by adding sautéed mushrooms to the sauce. Cremini, portobello, or wild mushrooms work well with salami, creating a rich and hearty combination.
• Salami and Olives Spaghetti: For a briny twist, incorporate some pitted and sliced black or green olives into the sauce. Their tanginess complements the salami and adds a burst of flavor to each bite.
• Salami and Capers Spaghetti: Add a Mediterranean touch by tossing in some capers to the sauce. Their salty and tangy profile pairs wonderfully with the salami and cherry tomatoes.
• Creamy Salami Spaghetti: For a creamier version, mix in some heavy cream or half-and-half with the tomato sauce. The creaminess balances the flavors and gives the dish a luscious texture.

Equipment

To make Salami Spaghetti, you will need the following kitchen equipment:

1. Large Pot: To cook the spaghetti, you'll need a large pot with enough capacity to hold the pasta comfortably while it boils.
2. Skillet or Saucepan: You'll need a skillet or saucepan to sauté the onions, garlic, and other ingredients for the sauce.
3. Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the onion, garlic, basil, and any other ingredients that need preparation.
4. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To stir and combine the ingredients while cooking.
5. Colander or Strainer: To drain the cooked spaghetti after boiling.
6. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
7. Grater (optional): If you're using fresh Parmesan cheese and want to grate it for serving.
8. Pasta Server or Tongs: To serve the cooked spaghetti onto plates.
9. Stove or Cooktop: To cook the spaghetti and sauce components.
10. Can Opener (if using canned ingredients): If you're using canned tomatoes or other canned ingredients, a can opener will be necessary.
11. Cooking Timer (optional): Helpful for keeping track of the pasta cooking time and sautéing duration.
12. Bowls and Plates: For serving the finished Salami Spaghetti.

How to store Salami Spaghetti

1. Cooling Down: Allow the cooked Salami Spaghetti to cool down to room temperature before storing it. Leaving it out at room temperature for an extended period can lead to bacterial growth.
2. Refrigeration: Transfer the cooled Salami Spaghetti to an airtight container. You can also use a sealable plastic bag or wrap the spaghetti tightly with plastic wrap. Ensure there are no air pockets to prevent drying out and contamination.
3. Labeling: If you are storing the Salami Spaghetti for an extended period or if you have multiple containers in the fridge, label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
4. Refrigerator Placement: Place the container in the refrigerator. The recommended storage time for cooked spaghetti is about 3-4 days. Beyond this period, the quality and taste may start to deteriorate.
5. Freezing (Optional): If you have a substantial amount of leftover Salami Spaghetti that you won't consume within a few days, consider freezing it for longer storage. Transfer the cooled spaghetti to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, and it can be kept in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
6. Thawing and Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy the stored Salami Spaghetti, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat the spaghetti in the microwave or on the stovetop until it reaches a safe internal temperature (165°F or 74°C) for consuming.
7. Avoiding Double Dipping: When serving portions from the stored container, use a clean utensil each time to prevent contamination and the risk of foodborne illness.

Salami Spaghetti Recipe Top tips

• Choose Quality Salami: Opt for high-quality salami with good flavor and texture. You can use different varieties of salami, such as Genoa, soppressata, or spicy salami, based on your preferences. Look for salami with minimal additives and preservatives for a more authentic taste.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: When boiling the spaghetti, cook it al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a slight firmness when bitten. Overcooking the pasta can result in a mushy texture.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the cooked spaghetti, save about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water can be used later to adjust the sauce's consistency and help it adhere better to the pasta.
• Sauté Onions and Garlic Gently: When sautéing the onions and garlic, cook them over medium heat until they become translucent and aromatic. Be cautious not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
• Balance Flavors: Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the seasonings accordingly. Salami can be quite salty, so you may need less additional salt. Add more pepper or other herbs if desired.
• Don't Overcook Salami: If you're using slices of salami, add them towards the end of sautéing, just to heat them through. Overcooking the salami can make it tough and dry.
• Fresh Basil: Use fresh basil leaves rather than dried for the best flavor. Add the basil towards the end to preserve its bright and fragrant taste.
• Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to enhance the nutritional value and add more colors and textures to the dish.
• Grated Cheese on Top: While grated Parmesan cheese is optional, it adds a delightful finishing touch and complements the flavors of the dish. Use fresh Parmesan for the best taste.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.