Pasta pizza

I love this recipe because I can have it on the table in 12 minutes.  If it didn't take the pasta water so long to boil it would be even faster. 

Serves two hungry adults.

1/2 box spaghetti

1/2 package pepperoni slices or cubes (personal preference)*
1/2 c ham* or mushrooms
1 jar pizza sauce
* Processed meats can be full of soy and even dairy products.  Be sure to read the label before you buy a particular brand.

Boil the water, start the spaghetti.  Cook it al dente (undercooked by American expectations), a minute or two less than is listed on the box. 

Meanwhile cook the pepperoni in a dry pan.  If using ham start it at the same time in the same pan.  If using mushrooms add the pepperoni after a few minutes.  Your goal is to get the effect of oven heat on pizza toppings in the pan so if you like crisped pepperoni you'll cook longer / hotter than someone who just wants their pepperonis hot enough to release some oil.  Add the sauce a minute before your pasta is done.  Stir to heat through and toss with the pasta.

If you're feeling generous to your non-dairy allergic dining partner top his portion with good cheese.