If you’re looking to shake up your weeknight dinner routine, try this delightful Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil. This dish brings together a beautiful balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors in the most comforting way. Imagine golden, melt-in-your-mouth caramelized onions harmonizing with perfectly boiled pasta, all enveloped in a homemade chili oil that delivers just the right bite. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just starting out, this vegetarian recipe offers both simplicity and satisfaction, making it the ideal choice for busy weeknights or those moments when you crave something exciting yet effortless.
The beauty of this Caramelized Onion Pasta lies in its ease of preparation. With just a handful of ingredients, you can transform a simple meal into something extraordinary. The caramelized onions provide a robust sweetness that pairs beautifully with the heat from the chili oil. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal in no time at all. So, roll up your sleeves and indulge in a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul!
Why You’ll Love This Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet caramelized onions and spicy chili oil creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Enjoy a hearty meal without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- Customizable: Adjust the heat level to your preference and experiment with additional toppings.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch to enjoy throughout the week!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this scrumptious Caramelized Onion Pasta, it’s essential to prepare your workspace for efficient cooking. Start by gathering all necessary ingredients and tools. You’ll need a large skillet for caramelizing the onions, a small saucepan for making the chili oil, and a large pot for boiling the pasta. Ensure you have a wooden spoon or spatula to stir the ingredients effectively.
Gather your measuring cups and spoons, as precision helps in achieving the best results. Having everything ready beforehand will streamline your cooking process, allowing you to focus on enjoying the delicious outcome! Once you have all tools and ingredients at the ready, you’ll find it easy to create this delightful dish.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or bucatini
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp sugar (optional)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
- 1/3 cup olive oil (for chilli oil)
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1.5 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil along with the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once the butter has melted, add the thinly sliced onions and a teaspoon of salt. Cook the onions slowly for about 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to turn deeply golden and sweet. If you wish to enhance the sweetness even further, add the optional sugar halfway through cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chilli Oil
While the onions are caramelizing, you can prepare the chili oil. In a small saucepan, combine 1/3 cup of olive oil and the thinly sliced garlic. Heat over low until the garlic turns golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Then, stir in the red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt, removing from heat once blended. This homemade chili oil will bring a flavorful kick to your pasta.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
In the meantime, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or bucatini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, remember to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water — this starchy water will help create a silky sauce later!
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Onions
Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it directly to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Toss them gently to ensure that the pasta coats nicely in the sweet onion mixture. If the dish seems a little too thick, pour in the reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.
Step 5: Add the Chilli Oil
Now it’s time to introduce that flavorful chili oil! Pour it over the pasta and enlist the help of your spatula to toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated. Taste and adjust the spice level according to your preference, adding more chili oil or pepper flakes if desired.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil is now ready to be served! Plate the pasta, and don’t forget to top each bowl with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a fresh touch. This dish looks as good as it tastes — you’ll be sure to impress anyone you share it with!
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.
- Vegetables: Broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach can complement the dish beautifully and add more nutrition.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like cumin or coriander for a unique twist on flavor.
Cooking Notes
- For a deeper flavor, allow your onions to caramelize slowly, ensuring they reach a rich golden brown.
- Be cautious not to overcook the garlic in the chili oil; burnt garlic can turn bitter.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this pasta with a light salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Serve with crusty bread to mop up any leftover chili oil sauce on the plate.
Tips
- For added creaminess, mix in a bit of cream or cream cheese when tossing the pasta.
- Make sure you taste the dish before serving; adjust the seasoning to suit your flavor preferences.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 570 per serving
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape, such as penne or fettuccine.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta while keeping the rest of the ingredients unchanged for an equally delicious meal.
What can I do with leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan, adding a splash of water or olive oil as needed.
Can I omit the Parmesan cheese?
Yes, feel free to leave it out for a dairy-free option, or swap it for a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil offers a fantastic combination of flavors and textures that makes it a must-try recipe. Its simplicity and bold taste make it perfect for any occasion. Encourage yourself to customize this dish with various proteins and vegetables to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate to share your creations, ask questions, and connect with fellow food lovers! Enjoy this comforting meal, and make it a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Print
Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil offers a delightful blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or bucatini
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp sugar (optional)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
- 1/3 cup olive oil (for chilli oil)
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1.5 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil along with the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once the butter has melted, add the thinly sliced onions and a teaspoon of salt. Cook the onions slowly for about 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the onions are caramelizing, you can prepare the chili oil. In a small saucepan, combine 1/3 cup of olive oil and the thinly sliced garlic. Heat over low until the garlic turns golden and fragrant.
- In the meantime, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or bucatini and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it directly to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Toss them gently.
- Now it’s time to introduce that flavorful chili oil! Pour it over the pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated.
- Your Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil is now ready to be served! Plate the pasta and top each bowl with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
Notes
This dish is perfect for meal prep! Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 570 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 12 g