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Homemade Dominican Spaghetti (Espaguetis) recipe photo

Dominican Spaghetti (Espaguetis)

A savory Dominican-style spaghetti with browned salami, tomatoes, olives, and a creamy or tangy finish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • tablespoons salt divided (1 tbsp for boiling water; remaining to taste)
  • 1 pound Dominican salami cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 red onion large, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper or red bell pepper, cut into small cubes
  • 1/4 cup pitted green olives
  • 2 cloves garlic crushed
  • 1 tablespoon capers optional
  • 4 plum tomatoes cut into small cubes
  • 1/4 teaspoon oregano dry, ground
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1/4 tablespoon vinegar optional; do not use if adding evaporated milk
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly cracked or ground, or to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • large skillet or pot
  • Colander
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Measuring Spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of water (about 2 liters) to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of the salt. Add the spaghetti and cook until slightly softer than al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
  3. Add the cubed salami and cook, stirring, until browned.
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the diced onion, bell pepper, olives, crushed garlic, and capers (if using). Cook, stirring, about 1 minute or until the onion becomes translucent.
  5. Stir in the diced tomatoes and oregano, cover, and simmer 3–5 minutes until the tomatoes are softened.
  6. Add the tomato sauce and vinegar (omit vinegar if using evaporated milk). Stir to combine and heat through.
  7. If using evaporated milk, stir it in now and mix gently; do not let the sauce boil once milk is added to prevent curdling.
  8. Add the drained spaghetti to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Season with the remaining salt and black pepper to taste.
  9. Serve hot and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Do not add vinegar if using evaporated milk.
  • Both vinegar and milk are optional and are regional variations.
  • Use Dominican salami for authentic flavor.
  • Salt amounts can be adjusted to taste.