Description
Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil is a delightful combination of sweet, slow-cooked onions and spicy, aromatic chili oil that transforms a simple pasta dish into a bold and satisfying meal. This pasta features rich, golden caramelized onions paired with fragrant chili oil made from olive oil, red chili flakes, paprika, and garlic, offering a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, this recipe is ideal for those craving a comforting dish with a flavorful kick.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or linguine)
- 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
- 1 tablespoon red chili flakes
- 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
- Caramelize the Onions: Thinly slice the onion into even rings to ensure even caramelization. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and a pinch of salt, cooking slowly while stirring every 5-7 minutes for about 25-30 minutes until onions become soft and golden brown. Five minutes before finishing, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper; then set aside.
- Make the Chili Oil: In a small saucepan, heat 3 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat until warm but not hot. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the red chili flakes and paprika, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the spices release their aroma. Pour in 1 teaspoon soy sauce and simmer for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the noodles. Set pasta aside.
- Combine Pasta and Onions: Add the caramelized onions to the cooked pasta and toss well to coat. Drizzle the chili oil over the pasta and toss again, allowing the heat to help the oil coat the noodles. If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water gradually to loosen the sauce and better coat the pasta.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over the pasta. Add freshly chopped basil or parsley for a fresh, herbal touch. Optionally, add extra chili flakes for additional heat. Serve the pasta hot as a satisfying main dish or alongside a fresh salad.
Notes
- Use long pasta shapes like spaghetti or linguine for best results.
- Caramelizing onions is a slow process—take your time for maximum flavor and sweetness.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes in the oil to suit your spice preference.
- Reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce and enhance its texture.
- Extra Parmesan and fresh herbs elevate the dish’s richness and freshness.
- This dish is perfect for a cozy, comforting meal with a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Caramelized Onion Pasta, Chili Oil Pasta, Spicy Pasta, Italian Pasta Recipe, Vegetarian Pasta, Comfort Food, Sweet and Spicy Pasta
