The $2 Little Meal, Caramelized Onions And Pasta+

This humble yet deeply satisfying dish transforms inexpensive ingredients into a comforting meal. The star is the onion, slowly cooked until golden and sweet, creating a rich sauce that clings to the pasta. With just a hint of sugar and balsamic vinegar, the flavors deepen, offering a savory-sweet profile that feels indulgent without the cost. It is perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something quick, hearty, and delicious. The combination of farfalle noodles, aromatic herbs, and tender onions makes for a texturally pleasing experience. Serve it simply for a light dinner or add a protein for heartiness. It is a testament to how simple ingredients, when treated with care, can create a memorable meal for the whole family.

Cuisine: Italian

Courses: Main Courses

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 4

Calories: 137.1

Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian

Description

This humble yet deeply satisfying dish transforms inexpensive ingredients into a comforting meal. The star is the onion, slowly cooked until golden and sweet, creating a rich sauce that clings to the pasta. With just a hint of sugar and balsamic vinegar, the flavors deepen, offering a savory-sweet profile that feels indulgent without the cost. It is perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something quick, hearty, and delicious. The combination of farfalle noodles, aromatic herbs, and tender onions makes for a texturally pleasing experience. Serve it simply for a light dinner or add a protein for heartiness. It is a testament to how simple ingredients, when treated with care, can create a memorable meal for the whole family.

Ingredients

2 tablespoon Oil
1 1/2 pound Onions, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Sugar
1 teaspoon Dried basil leaves (or 3 tablespoon.
1/2 teaspoon Dried thyme leaves (or 3 ts. fresh)
1/2 cup Water
2 tablespoon Balsamic vinegar
12 oz Farfalle or bow-tie noodles
Freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the farfalle noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2
While the pasta cooks, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
3
Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown, soft, and caramelized. Lower the heat if they start to burn.
4
Sprinkle the sugar over the onions and stir to combine. This helps deepen the color and sweetness. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5
Add the dried basil, dried thyme, and freshly ground black pepper to the onions. Stir to distribute the herbs evenly.
6
Pour in the water and balsamic vinegar. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly and forms a glossy sauce.
7
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the onions. Toss well to coat the noodles in the sauce.
8
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
9
Serve immediately while hot.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 137.1kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 7.7g12%
Saturated Fat 1.1g6%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 2444.4mg102%
Total Carbohydrate 16.5g6%
Dietary Fiber 2.9g12%
Sugars 7.8g
Protein 1.9g4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For a richer texture, you can add a splash of olive oil or a knob of butter (if not keeping it vegan) at the end of cooking.

Fresh basil torn into pieces can be used instead of dried basil for a brighter flavor. Add fresh basil at the very end of cooking to preserve its aroma.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to restore moisture.

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli for added nutrition.

Be patient with caramelizing the onions; low and slow cooking ensures they become sweet rather than burnt.

Keywords: vegan, pasta, onions, caramelized, budget, easy, dinner, balsamic, farfalle, simple, comforting, quick, healthy, vegetarian, meal, cheap, basil, thyme, italian

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/the-2-little-meal-caramelized-onions-and-pasta/