1. i nver use a recipe for spag, but may i recommend--

    sauteeing (sp?) the onions and garlic in diced bacon first.

    sambal olek (some asian chile paste with tons of flavor---i can get it here in athens, so it aint hard to find)

    coriander

    kalamata olives (not the same thing as black olives)
  2. That stuff is great on chicken shawarma.