| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 520 | 22g | 8g | 67g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 3g | 15g | 0.8g |
I have always gravitated towards dishes that foster a sense of connection — connection to flavor, to tradition, and to health. The Caramelized Shallot Pasta, for me, is a dish that embodies all of these elements. As someone who grew up in the open expanses of Montana, I’ve always gravitated towards recipes that help me feel rooted and in tune with nature’s bounty. The simplicity and aromatic flavor of this pasta dish take me back to those early days, yet it’s also a journey into new culinary territories.
Flavor and Tradition
Tradition is a powerful vessel that transports flavors from one generation to the next, and the Caramelized Shallot Pasta holds a humble yet proud place in that tradition. Caramelizing shallots captures their natural sweetness while the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar balance the dish with a subtle tartness and depth. It’s a process that requires patience but rewards you with layers of well-developed flavor.
A Healthy Choice
Beyond its taste, this dish packs a punch in terms of health benefits. Shallots and garlic are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can bolster your immune system. Olive oil provides a rich source of monounsaturated fats, which are great for heart health. Plus, adding freshly chopped parsley not only enhances the dish visually but also brings an extra layer of nutrients, being high in vitamins A, C, and K.
What ties this whole recipe together is its flexibility. It’s reminiscent of the cozy charm you’d find in a comforting bowl of French Onion Soup or the complex simplicity of Aglio e Olio. The Caramelized Shallot Pasta could easily be paired with a fresh green salad or garlic bread to round out your meal. This versatility makes it a staple in any kitchen, providing a nutritious and delightful option for dinner any night of the week.
Whether you’re preparing this dish to share with family, or simply to enjoy in the peaceful moments of your own space, the Caramelized Shallot Pasta is a reminder of how simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. Inspired by both my roots and my ever-evolving palate, this recipe is a testament to the joys of cooking with love and intention.
If you’re intrigued by similar savory experiences, you might also appreciate the delectable depth of a well-made French Onion Soup or the elegantly simple Aglio e Olio. Both dishes complement the same philosophy found in the Caramelized Shallot Pasta: using everyday ingredients to create extraordinary flavors.
What You’ll Need
- 3 large shallots, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 pound spaghetti or favorite pasta
- 1 cup pasta cooking water, reserved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti or your favorite pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta.
Step Two
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
Step Three
Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the caramelized shallots and cook for another 2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step Four
Stir in the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture is slightly thickened. Add the crushed red pepper flakes and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step Five
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the caramelized shallot mixture, tossing to combine. Gradually pour in the reserved pasta cooking water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Step Six
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.
