Spam-Infused Garlic & Olive Oil Pasta (Aglio e Olio)
An Easy and Delicious Spam Aglio e Olio Recipe for Home Cooks
Indulge in a simple yet incredibly flavorful Aglio e Olio pasta, elevated with the savory goodness of Spam! This recipe brings together the classic combination of garlic and olive oil with the salty, satisfying bite of Spam, making it a delightful and easy meal to prepare at home. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.
Ingredients- Spaghetti pasta, 2 servings (approx. 200g)
- Spam, 1/2 can (approx. 100g)
- Garlic, 3-4 cloves (minced or thinly sliced)
- Olive oil, generous amount (about 5-6 tablespoons)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt if desired. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook for about 8 minutes, or until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta, as this starchy water will help create the sauce.
Step 2
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add a generous amount of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, add the minced or sliced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3
Add the Spam, cut into bite-sized cubes, to the skillet with the garlic. Cook until the Spam is lightly browned and slightly crispy. The rendered fat from the Spam will add a wonderful savory depth to the dish.
Step 4
Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it directly to the skillet with the garlic and Spam. Pour in about 1 cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together vigorously over medium-high heat, allowing the starchy pasta water to emulsify with the olive oil and create a light sauce that coats the pasta. Continue to toss and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 5
Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy your delicious Spam Aglio e Olio!
