Pasta with Chilli Oil and caramelized Onion

A rich, sweet, and spicy pasta dish with deep umami flavors from slow-cooked onions and a kick from homemade chilli oil.

Servings: 2-3

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

For the Caramelized Onions

  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp butter (or olive oil for vegan option)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, helps with caramelization)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (for depth)

For the Chilli Oil

  • ¼ cup olive oil (or neutral oil like grapeseed)
  • 2-3 dried red chillies, crushed (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp red chilli flakes
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
  • A pinch of salt

For the Pasta

  • 8 oz (225g) spaghetti, linguine, or pappardelle
  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions

  1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large pan over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar (if using). Stir well.
  3. Cook slowly for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deep golden brown.
  4. Add balsamic vinegar in the last 5 minutes for extra richness.

2. Make the Chilli Oil

  1. In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over low heat.
  2. Add crushed chillies, chilli flakes, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and salt.
  3. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant (don’t let the garlic burn).
  4. Remove from heat and let it infuse while you cook the pasta.

3. Cook the Pasta

  1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining.

4. Assemble the Dish

  1. Toss the cooked pasta into the caramelized onions.
  2. Add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce.
  3. Drizzle with chilli oil (adjust to your spice preference).
  4. Sprinkle with Parmesan and toss well.
  5. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra chilli oil if desired.

Serving Suggestion

  • Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
  • Top with extra Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Enjoy your sweet, spicy, and deeply flavorful caramelized onion pasta! 🌶️🍝

New chat