Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil: A Sweet and Spicy Flavor Bomb Recipe
This Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil is a delightful marriage of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Slow-cooked caramelized onions bring a rich sweetness that perfectly balances the fiery and smoky chili oil. Tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and finished with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese, this dish is a simple yet flavorful meal that elevates everyday ingredients into a comforting and elegant dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
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 evenly and heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Let them caramelize for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 5-7 minutes until golden and soft. About 5 minutes before done, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
- Make the Chili Oil: Warm 3 tablespoons olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add thinly sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in red chili flakes and paprika, cooking for 2-3 minutes to infuse the oil with spice and smokiness. Add 1 teaspoon soy sauce, simmer for 2 more minutes, then remove from heat.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining the noodles. Set pasta aside.
- Combine the Pasta and Onions: Toss the cooked pasta with the caramelized onions until well coated. Drizzle chili oil over the pasta and mix thoroughly. Add reserved pasta water gradually if the mixture feels dry to create a glossy sauce that coats the noodles evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley. Add extra chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately while hot for a flavorful main dish or accompaniment to a fresh salad.
Notes
- Use medium heat when caramelizing onions to avoid burning and ensure proper sweetness.
- Adjust red chili flakes in the chili oil to control the heat level according to your preference.
- Reserving pasta water is essential for loosening the sauce and helping it cling to the pasta.
- Fresh herbs add a brightness that balances the richness of caramelized onions and chili oil.
- This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or crusty bread.
Keywords: caramelized onion pasta, chili oil pasta, spicy pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, easy dinner recipe, sweet and spicy pasta
