Name: Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil: A Sweet and Spicy Flavor Bomb Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or linguine recommended); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended); 1 tablespoon red chili flakes; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 small garlic clove, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; Grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil or parsley, chopped; Extra chili flakes (optional)

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Introduction

Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil is a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that will elevate your pasta game. This simple yet impressive dish combines slowly caramelized onions with a homemade chili oil for a perfect balance of heat and richness.

The image shows a close-up of a single serving of spaghetti pasta on a white plate, with the noodles coated in a glossy, light brown sauce. There are small bits of dark red chili flakes and black pepper scattered throughout the pasta, adding texture. Tiny green herbs are sprinkled on top, giving a fresh contrast to the warm tones of the noodles and sauce. The strands of spaghetti are intertwined, forming a mound in the center of the plate, with the spices and sauce evenly distributed. The background features a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, linguine, or any preferred shape)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing onions and garlic)
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 tablespoons olive oil (for chili oil)
1 tablespoon red chili flakes
1 teaspoon paprika
1 small garlic clove, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon soy sauce
Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Extra chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the onions by thinly slicing them into even rings for uniform caramelization. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the sliced onions to the pan with a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally and cook for 25-30 minutes until golden and soft, stirring every 5-7 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 3: About 5 minutes before the onions are done, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then set aside.
Step 4: For the chili oil, warm 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add thinly sliced garlic and sauté 1-2 minutes without browning.
Step 5: Stir in red chili flakes and paprika, cooking for 2-3 minutes to infuse the oil with flavor.
Step 6: Add soy sauce, stir, and let simmer for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 7: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 8: Toss the cooked pasta with the caramelized onions until well coated.
Step 9: Drizzle the chili oil over the pasta and mix thoroughly. Add reserved pasta water gradually if the pasta needs loosening.
Step 10: Garnish with grated Parmesan, chopped fresh basil or parsley, and extra chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use a wide pan for caramelizing onions to allow even cooking without steaming.
Adjust red chili flakes in the chili oil to control the spice level to your preference.
For added protein, toss in cooked chicken or crispy pancetta.
Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can be used instead of basil or parsley for a different herbal note.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to restore the sauce’s texture.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a dish with one layer of spaghetti noodles, light beige in color and glossy with a slight oily texture, arranged loosely on a white plate. On top, there is a layer of small, golden-brown crispy bits mixed with darker brown toasted pieces, scattered unevenly across the noodles. Finely chopped green herbs are sprinkled over the dish, adding a fresh color contrast. The overall look is warm and inviting, with a mix of soft and crunchy textures visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of onion?

Yes, yellow onions work best for caramelization due to their natural sweetness, but you can also use white or red onions for a slightly different flavor.

Is this dish spicy for everyone?

The spiciness depends on the amount of red chili flakes used in the chili oil. You can adjust the quantity to make it mild or extra spicy according to your taste.