| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 360 | 10g | 4g | 45g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 4g | 12g | 0.8g |
As a food blogger, I always have my sights set on culinary adventures that could translate my love for both Louisiana’s Creole richness and France’s elegant fare. Today, I’m eager to lavish some attention on one of these gems – Pasta with Tropea Onions and Cherry Tomatoes, a dish that transports me to the sun-drenched coasts of Italy.
A Burst of Flavors and Colors
This recipe grabs my affection not only for its vibrant palette but also the symphony of flavors it completes on the palate. Sweet cherry tomatoes balancing the unique, almost honey-like, sweetness of the Tropea onions – these components come together to echo the carefree spirit of Mediterranean summers in a single bowl. The sharpness of Parmesan cheese and the warm kick of red pepper flakes – if you choose to use them, add just enough drama to make each bite interesting.
Similarities and Pairing Suggestions
You could say the Pasta with Tropea Onions and Cherry Tomatoes bears some resemblance to the traditional Pasta alla Norma in terms of ingredients, but it blazes its own trail with the special inclusion of Tropea onions. For accompaniments, I would recommend something off-the-road like Roasted Broccoli with Shrimp. The slight acidity and earthy flavors from broccoli and shrimp would perfectly complement the sweetness from the Tropea onions and cherry tomatoes.
Reaping Health Benefits
And if this sensory delight wasn’t enough, this recipe also champions robust health. Packed with Vitamin C from tomatoes and flavonoids from onions, it promises to strengthen your immune system. Additionally, the fiber in the pasta and antioxidant-rich garlic help burn fat and regulate your blood sugar levels.
In the end, what makes me treasure this recipe is how it effortlessly bridges cultures in a harmonious matrimony of ingredients – just like my Creole and French culinary influences. So, whether you’re looking to satiate weekday cravings, or prepping a weekend brunch, the Pasta with Tropea Onions and Cherry Tomatoes is, indeed, a recipe to fall in love with!
What You’ll Need
- 1 pound pasta of your choice
- 3 large Tropea onions
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Method
Step One
Start by filling a large pot with water and put it on high heat. Add a generous amount of salt and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until it is al dente.
Step Two
While the pasta is cooking, peel and thinly slice the Tropea onions. Also mince the garlic, slice the cherry tomatoes in half and roughly chop the basil leaves.
Step Three
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced Tropea onions to the skillet and sauté until they begin to soften and caramelize. At this point, add the minced garlic and continue sautéing for another minute or until the garlic is fragrant.
Step Four
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the tomatoes cook until they start to break down and release their juices.
Step Five
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about a cup of the pasta water. Add the pasta to the skillet with the onions and tomatoes, adding some of the pasta water if necessary to loosen up the sauce.
Step Six
Mix everything together well and let the pasta cook in the sauce for a couple of minutes. Stir in the chopped basil and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step Seven
Transfer the pasta to a serving dish, sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese, and serve hot. Enjoy your Pasta with Tropea Onions and Cherry Tomatoes!
