Caramelized Onion Pasta Chilli Oil (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Pasta
01 -
340g pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
02 -
Salt for boiling water
→ For the Caramelized Onions
03 -
2 large onions, thinly sliced
04 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
05 -
1 tablespoon butter
06 -
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
07 -
Salt and pepper to taste
→ For the Chilli Oil
08 -
60ml olive oil
09 -
1 tablespoon chili flakes
10 -
1 garlic clove, minced
11 -
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
12 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
→ For Garnish
13 -
Fresh parsley, chopped
14 -
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
15 -
Extra chili oil (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle sugar (if using) to aid caramelization. Cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until onions turn deep golden-brown. Set aside.
02 -
In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over low to medium heat. Add minced garlic and chili flakes. Let the garlic infuse into the oil for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally and being careful not to burn the garlic. Add smoked paprika (if using) and salt, then stir to combine. Remove from heat.
03 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente (approximately 8-10 minutes). Drain, reserving about 120ml of pasta cooking water.
04 -
Return the skillet with caramelized onions to medium heat. Add the cooked pasta and toss to combine. Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce that coats the pasta evenly. Pour the chili oil over the pasta and toss again until well incorporated.
05 -
Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Drizzle with extra chili oil for additional heat if preferred. Serve immediately.
# Notes:
01 -
For the best caramelization, cook onions slowly and don't rush the process - this develops their natural sweetness
02 -
The pasta water contains starch that helps create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta