If you’re looking for a dish that combines simplicity with rich, complex flavors, this Caramelized Onion Pasta is a must-try.
The secret to its extraordinary taste lies in the caramelized onions, which bring a sweet and savory depth to the sauce.
With just a bit of patience and some basic ingredients, you can create a meal that will impress anyone at your table.
Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 Large Onions
- 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 4 Tbsp Butter
- 3 Egg Yolks
- 1 cup Water
- 3/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Salt & Pepper to Taste
- Cooked Spaghetti
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Caramelizing onions is the key to this dish, and while it requires some time, the result is well worth it. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice the Onions: Peel and thinly slice the onions.
- Cook the Onions: In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. This process will take about 40 minutes. If you’re short on time, you can use a shortcut method, but taking your time will yield the best results.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Once your onions are caramelized, it’s time to make the sauce.
- Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the caramelized onions, olive oil, egg yolks, grated Parmesan cheese, water, salt, and pepper.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend the mixture until smooth. You may need to add the water in parts to achieve the right consistency without making the sauce too runny. The result should be a creamy, smooth sauce that coats the back of a spoon.
Step 3: Combine and Heat
Now it’s time to bring everything together.
- Toss the Pasta: In a large pan, toss the cooked spaghetti with the caramelized onion sauce.
- Warm the Dish: Warm the pasta over low heat for about a minute, just until everything is heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as the egg yolks in the sauce can curdle if exposed to too much heat.
Step 4: Serve
Your Caramelized Onion Pasta is ready to serve!
- Garnish and Enjoy: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. The parsley adds a nice pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Tips for Success
- Patience with Onions: The key to perfect caramelized onions is patience. Cook them slowly over medium heat, stirring occasionally, to allow the natural sugars to develop and create that rich, sweet flavor.
- Consistent Sauce: When blending the sauce, adding the water in parts helps you control the consistency better, preventing it from becoming too thin.
- Serving Suggestion: This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Conclusion
This Caramelized Onion Pasta is a dish that truly shines in its simplicity.
The combination of sweet, caramelized onions, creamy egg yolks, and tangy Parmesan cheese creates a sauce that is both comforting and luxurious.
With just a little bit of time and a few ingredients, you can create a meal that tastes like it came from a gourmet restaurant.
Enjoy every bite and savor the flavors of this delightful pasta dish!