Description
Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil is a delightful fusion of sweet and spicy flavors that transforms a simple bowl of pasta into a gourmet experience. This dish features slowly caramelized onions that bring a rich, deep sweetness, perfectly complemented by a homemade chili oil that adds a warm kick. Ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering with friends, this pasta dish can be customized to suit your spice preference and dietary needs. In just 45 minutes, you can create a comforting meal that is both satisfying and full of character.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or linguine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 large yellow onion (thinly sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for chili oil)
- 1 tablespoon red chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown and soft, about 15-20 minutes. Stir in minced garlic during the last few minutes.
- For the chili oil, heat another saucepan with 3 tablespoons of olive oil and sliced garlic on low heat for about 2 minutes. Add red chili flakes and paprika; simmer gently for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in soy sauce.
- Combine cooked pasta with caramelized onions in the skillet, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency. Pour over the chili oil mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve warm topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg