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Pasta with Caramelized Onions Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 92 reviews

This Pasta with Chili Oil recipe combines perfectly caramelized onions and aromatic chili-infused oil to create a flavorful and vibrant dish. The sweet, savory onions meld beautifully with the spicy, smoky chili oil, while freshly grated Parmesan and herbs add creamy and fresh finishing touches. Ideal for a quick yet impressive weekday dinner, this dish is easy to make and customizable with your favorite pasta shape.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or linguine recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chili Oil:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon red chili flakes (adjust to spice preference)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 small garlic clove, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce

For Garnishing:

  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
  • Extra chili flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Thinly slice the onion into even rings to ensure uniform cooking. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and a pinch of salt, and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally every 5-7 minutes, for about 25-30 minutes until golden and soft. About 5 minutes before they finish, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then set aside.
  2. Make the Chili Oil: Warm 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes without browning. Stir in the red chili flakes and paprika and cook for another 2-3 minutes to infuse the oil with spice and smokiness. Add 1 teaspoon of soy sauce for umami, simmer for 2 more minutes, then remove from heat.
  3. Cook the Pasta: While onions caramelize, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
  4. Combine the Pasta and Onions: Add the caramelized onions to the drained pasta and toss well to coat. Drizzle the prepared chili oil over the pasta and toss to combine, allowing the warmth to help distribute the oil evenly. If the pasta looks dry, add reserved pasta water gradually to achieve a glossy, well-coated consistency.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle grated Parmesan generously over the pasta and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley. Optionally, add extra chili flakes for additional heat. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor experience.

Notes

  • Use long pasta shapes like spaghetti or linguine to best capture the chili oil and caramelized onions.
  • Be patient when caramelizing onions; slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness essential for this dish.
  • Adjust chili flakes according to your spice tolerance for a milder or spicier result.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help the oil adhere to pasta.
  • Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for chili oil due to its fruity flavor and aroma.

Keywords: pasta, chili oil, caramelized onions, spicy pasta, easy dinner, vegetarian pasta, Italian cuisine

Find it online: https://cookwithlea.com/pasta-with-caramelized-onions-recipe/