Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil
A rich and satisfying pasta dish featuring sweet caramelized onions, creamy sauce, and a touch of heat from chili oil, perfect for weeknight dinners or date nights.
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 2 servings spaghetti (or your favorite pasta) Choose any pasta shape you prefer.
- 2 tablespoons chili oil Adjust the amount based on heat preference.
- 1/2 cup cream Can substitute with a light cream alternative.
Flavor Ingredients
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced Essential for the sweetness.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil For cooking the onions.
- 3–4 cloves garlic, finely chopped Fresh garlic enhances flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste (about 1–2 teaspoons) Season pasta water and sauce.
Garnish (Optional)
- to taste Parmesan cheese Grate on top before serving.
- to taste chopped parsley For color and freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Thinly slice the red onion and finely chop the garlic.
Cooking the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring water to a booming boil and add about 2 teaspoons of salt.
- Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining.
Caramelizing the Onions
- In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and cook for approximately 6 to 7 minutes until golden brown.
- Stir in the finely chopped garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes.
Making the Sauce
- Drizzle chili oil over onion and garlic mixture, then lower the heat.
- Add cream, Italian seasoning, and salt. Stir gently, using reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency if needed.
Combining and Serving
- Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, coating it well.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
- For extra heat, serve with chili oil or flakes on the side.
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Notes
Allow leftovers to cool before storing in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding pasta water if the sauce thickens.