Ingredients

12 oz pasta (such as spaghetti, penne, or linguine)

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)

Instructions

Step 1: Thinly slice the onion into even rings. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions with a pinch of salt and cook, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes until golden and caramelized.

Step 2: About 5 minutes before the onions are done, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.

Step 3: In a small saucepan, warm 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Stir in the red chili flakes and paprika, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the oil is infused and aromatic.

Step 5: Add 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, stir, and let simmer for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 6: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Step 7: Toss the drained pasta with the caramelized onions until well combined.

Step 8: Drizzle the chili oil over the pasta and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water gradually if the pasta seems dry, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Step 9: Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley. Add extra chili flakes if you prefer more heat. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use long pasta shapes like spaghetti or linguine for the best texture and to hold the chili oil well.

Adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your spice preference, or omit for a milder dish.

For a vegan option, skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors further.

FAQs

Can I use other types of onions?

Yes, yellow onions are ideal for caramelizing due to their sweetness, but white or red onions can also be used. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I prevent the garlic in the chili oil from burning?

Keep the heat moderate and watch the garlic closely. Remove the pan from heat as soon as the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden to avoid a bitter taste.