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Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil

Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil: Sweet Heat Awaits!

This Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil is a quick, vegan-friendly dish that combines sweet and spicy flavors for a comforting meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian, Vegan
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Pasta Any shape, especially long pasta like spaghetti or linguine.
For the Caramelization
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Extra virgin olive oil for enhanced flavor.
  • 1 large Yellow Onion Thinly sliced.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • Salt To taste.
  • Pepper To taste.
For the Chili Oil
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil Good quality oil.
  • 1 clove Garlic Sliced.
  • 1 tablespoon Red Chili Flakes Adjust to spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika For a smoky essence.
  • 1 teaspoon Soy Sauce Adds umami depth.
For Garnishing
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese Dairy-free option for vegan.
  • Fresh Basil or Parsley For brightness and color.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • saucepan
  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Caramelize the onions by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat, adding the onion, and seasoning with salt. Cook for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Add minced garlic in the last 5 minutes.
  2. Prepare the chili oil by warming 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a saucepan, adding sliced garlic, and sautéing for 1-2 minutes. Stir in red chili flakes and paprika for another minute, then add soy sauce and simmer for 2 minutes.
  3. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining.
  4. Combine the drained pasta with the caramelized onions and drizzle with chili oil, tossing everything together. Add reserved pasta water as needed for desired creaminess.
  5. Garnish the pasta with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Serve hot, adding chili flakes for extra heat if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Be patient while caramelizing onions to deepen the flavor. Customize the dish with proteins like chicken or shrimp for added nutrition.

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